What is the impact of rewilding cities for physical activity in urban areas?
In my role as an obesity specialist I am often asked how to increase physical activity in order to improve overall health. Rewilding urban space is an interesting idea that's been gaining popularity in recent years. Rewilding involves the reintroduction of aspects from natural landscapes to city environments in order to promote more outdoor engagement. This article will examine what it means to physical activity, and how this might affect our approach in combating obesity.
It is important to rewild urban spaces for physical activity
The rewilding of urban areas has the potential to increase physical activity amongst city residents. This is important, as urban areas often lack green space where people can participate in outdoor activities like walking, running or sports. People may spend more time outdoors and become more active if nature is brought back to cities. According to a study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, accessing natural environments could increase levels of physical activity and improve mental wellbeing.
What to Consider When Rewilding Urban Areas
Rewilding has many benefits, but there are a few things to consider when you are implementing this initiative. Planners should first ensure that these green spaces are accessible and safe. It is important to ensure that all residents can access these green spaces, regardless of socioeconomic background. Second, wildlife needs to be considered. In order to successfully reintroduce indigenous species, it is important to take steps to make sure they thrive and do not cause harm or disruption.
Rewilding urban spaces and their impact on physical activity
- New York's High Line: Built on an old railway track, this elevated park has been a favorite spot for walkers. It shows how urban space can be repurposed to encourage exercise.
- The Cheonggyecheon Stream, Seoul. The restoration of the stream has resulted into a 3.3km long space for public recreation in central Seoul. This area is now a popular place to walk and encourage physical activity in residents.
- Wild Mile Chicago: A floating eco-park along the Chicago River, this park offers a variety of walking and kayaking trails that encourage city residents to get out and interact with nature.
- Madrid Rio Park: Madrid's network of parks that encourages outdoor sports like running, cycling and more.
- Superkilen, Copenhagen: A park with bike trails and sporting facilities that encourages physical activity within the community.
Other Tips
Rewilding can promote physical activity but it's important to keep in mind that exercise and a healthy diet should go hand-in-hand for optimal health. Rewilding should also not be used to replace initiatives that promote physical fitness, such as improving the public transport system, creating bike lanes and adopting policies supporting active lifestyles.
Conclusion
The rewilding of urban areas has great potential to increase physical activity in our cities by making them more conducive for outdoor activities and interactions with nature. To ensure accessibility and safety, however, it is important to plan and execute carefully. We can transform our cities into more green and vibrant places, thereby creating healthier communities.
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