Although numerous studies have been undertaken, there is a noticeable inconsistency of the findings of the available studies and this is confounded by serious methodological issues within the included studies. The body of evidence in this review does not support the hypothesis that multi-component community wide interventions effectively increase population levels of physical activity. There is a clear need for well-designed intervention studies and such studies should focus on the quality of the measurement of physical activity, the frequency of measurement and the allocation to intervention and control communities.
Effects of a community-based intervention on physical activity: the Pawtucket Heart Health Program.
The effect of a community-based physical activity program in Pawtucket, RI, was evaluated relative to one in a comparison community.
                Cross-sectional surveys of 7529 residents of Pawtucket, RI, and 7732 residents of the comparison city were conducted at 2-year intervals during 7 years of intervention.
                There were no differences in self-reported knowledge of the benefits of physical activity, attempts to increase exercise, or prevalence of physical inactivity between Pawtucket and the comparison community.
                Future community-based physical activity interventions should attempt to involve a wider range of individuals.