The effects of signage and the physical environment on stair usage

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2007

Publication Title

Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Volume

4

Issue

3

First page number:

237

Last page number:

244

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Physical activity (PA) is a health behavior that most Americans do not participate in at recommended levels.

METHODS:

We sought to increase PA by use of motivational signs in selected buildings. Because physical environments are known to influence PA, the relationship of building characteristics and stair usage was also assessed. One pre- and two post-intervention observations were conducted.

RESULTS:

The proportion of those using the stairs increased from baseline to the second data collection, (chi2 = 39.31, p < 0.01) and baseline to a final data collection (chi2 = 10.1, p < 0.01). Built environment factors, including steps to the next higher floor and the number of floors in the building were consistent predictors of stair use. With signs positioned, the visibility of the stairs while standing in front of elevators became a significant predictor of stair usage.

CONCLUSIONS:

Motivational signs and characteristics of built environments are associated with increased stair usage.

Keywords

Adult; Communication; Elevators; Elevators And Escalators; Escalators; Environment; Environment Design; Exercise; Female; Health behavior; Health promotion; Humans; Location Directories And Signs; Male; Men; Motivation; Motivation (Psychology); Motor Activity; Nevada; Older people; Physical fitness; Pilot Projects; Social marketing; Stairs; Walking; Women

Disciplines

Environmental Policy | Exercise Science | Health Policy | Marketing | Public Policy

Language

English

Permissions

Use Find in Your Library, contact the author, or interlibrary loan to garner a copy of the item. Publisher policy does not allow archiving the final published version. If a post-print (author's peer-reviewed manuscript) is allowed and available, or publisher policy changes, the item will be deposited.


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