Background/Purpose: Using a framework of Social Anchor Theory, this study examined relationships among park use, social capital, community identity, and physical activity. Social capital has been linked to variety of positive outcomes including community engagement and lower crime rates and physical activity has been linked to lower levels of chronic diseases. Both have been linked to better mental health outcomes. Concern about both diminishing social capital and low levels of physical activity exists. Literature regarding the relationships among park use, social capital, and physical activity is lacking. Therefore, whether similar park environments promote both social capital and physical activity is unknown. This study used quantitative and qualitative methods to examine social capital and physical activity in park users.
Method: Participants were recruited using an intercept method in two parks in a mid-sized Southern city and completed questionnaires regarding demographics, social capital, community identity, and physical activity and a brief semi-structured interview.
Analysis/Results: Analysis/Results Interviews were transcribed verbatim and open and axial coding were used to identify themes in the qualitative data which included the social and physical activity value of parks. Results of regression analyses indicated that different park features attracted different types of users.
Conclusions Results of this study indicate that parks are important venues for both building social capital and promoting physical activity. Park planners should take into account the differential role of features in promoting physical activity and social capital.