WASHINGTON, Aug 5, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- About half of U.S. car trips are
less than 5 miles and U.S. researchers suggest people's health would benefit
from cycling or walking some of these trips.
Edward Maibach of George Mason University says community leaders should make
promotion of physical activity a priority because there are proven low-cost
options that communities can use to encourage people to get out of their cars
and walk or cycle instead.
"Use of these options helps people remain healthy by promoting physical activity
and reducing obesity and helps reduce heat-trapping pollutants that cause global
warming," Maibach says in a statement.
In an article in the journal Preventative Medicine, Maibach suggests policy
makers and government officials at all levels should examine ways to promote
active transport.
The Web site www.activelivingbydesign.org displays many examples of successful
active transport programs such as city-bike sharing, customized walking or
cycling maps.
"One of my favorite examples is 'walking school buses' in which children and a
few parents walk together to the local school," Maibach says.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International