How do Americans Measure up for Outdoor Activity?
An Outdoor Foundation online survey of 60,000 individuals concluded that Americans made more outdoor excursions in 2007 than in 2006. However, youth participation dropped, especially among girls. [Oh, no!]
"Children in America are suffering from the effects of obesity and inactivity at unprecedented levels," said Chris Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation. "Teaching youth the benefits of a healthy active outdoor lifestyle will ensure healthier children, healthier communities, and healthier businesses."
Several "gateway" activities shifted year to year --those that are easily accessible and often lead to involvement in other outdoor activities:
* Jogging and hiking were up in 2007 compared to 2006
* Camping was down substantially and bicycling down slightly.
Download the entire 2008 Outdoor Recreation Participation Report.
I found this update in Adventure Cycling Association's Bike Bits newsletter. It's free and you can subscribe to it here. Get the outdoor youth in America moving and having fun on a bike camping trip. Use the Adventure Cycling's Pedal Pioneers guide to plan the excursion.
