
All people in North Carolina have equitable and adaptive/adaptable access to physical activity opportunities across the lifespan. and 24 more...

Access to Exercise Opportunities: Percent of People in North Carolina (Total) with Access to Exercise Opportunities
Current Value
73%
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
Access to exercise in the state of North Carolina has remained in the mid-seventy percentiles for the past seven years, with the exception of a significant drop to 68% in 2021 (recorded in 2022 data). This post pandemic dip may reflect the closure of many public structures (along with decreased social interactions) arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Note that the HNC2030 target percent (for access to exercise) is 92%.
https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/north-carolina/2024/measure/factors/132/data) *
*The measure is not inclusive of all exercise opportunities within a community. For instance, sidewalks, which serve as locations for running or walking; malls, which may have walking clubs; and schools, which may have gyms open to community members, are not able to be captured in the measure.
Indicator Notes
Definition:
Percentage of population with adequate access to locations for physical activity.
The Percent of People with Access to Exercise Opportunities indicator is aligned with HNC 2030.
Why is this Important?
Increased physical activity is associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, cancer, stroke, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality, independent of obesity. Individuals who live closer to sidewalks, parks, and gyms are more likely to exercise. [countyhealthrankings.org]
Additional Information:
Source of data: County Health Rankings and Roadmaps (CCR&R)*
*Should not compare ranked data from year to year
Additional Links and References:
https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/benefits/
County Health Rankings and Roadmaps (CCR&R) - Business Analyst, Delorme map data, ESRI, & US Census Tiger line Files
https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/health-data/health-factors/health-behaviors/diet-and-exercise/access-to-exercise-opportunities?year=2024