Today, levels of physical activity are significantly low when compared with statistics 50 years ago. The Safe Routes to School team is working to reverse this trend by focusing on the many benefits of increased physical activity for students and the school community, reducing traffic congestion and pollution, and creating more livable communities.
In 1969, 5 out of 10 children walked or biked to school. Today, 1 out of 10 children walk or bike to school.
Children and adolescents should have 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily
76% of children in the U.S. do not get the minimum recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity.
Roads near schools are congested, decreasing safety and air quality for children.
Regular physical activity improves your overall health, fitness and quality of life.
Students who use active transportation to get to school arrive awake and alert, improving their concertation in class and their ability to focus.
Physically active students are healthier, happier, and feel more socially connected to their peers.
Active transportation can reduce congestion and parking problems around schools.
Safe Routes to school programs and activities can help overcome obstacles to walking and bicycling by improving safety and making it fun and convenient for everyone.
When education and encouragement programs are combined with infrastructure improvements, such as sidewalks and safe crossings, it can result in a 45% increase in walking and bicycling.