Public health policies that invoke passive intervention are often more successful in achieving population wide changes than those requiring active decision making by individuals. Examples of passive approaches to promoting physical activity include restricting downtown centers to foot or bicycle traffic, placing parking lots a suitable distance from buildings, and making stairways more convenient and as safe as elevators or escalators. Also, new communities can be planned with businesses and schools built adjacent to residential areas and connected by networks of bicycling and walking paths as well as public transportation. Physical activity can be fostered through public policies that enhance recreational space outdoors. Increased environmental awareness has led to zoning restrictions in many communities to protect open spaces for recreational use.
Authority is given to states to dispense funds, and each state is required to assign a coordinator.
The West Virginia Trails Coalition has been active in promoting trail development across the state. The coalition is beginning the coordination of a statewide trails plan. This collaboration of resources toward trails development in our state is a great example of nontraditional partners working towards policy and environmental changes for physical activity. Facilities should be convenient, affordable, comfortable, and safe to encourage regular physical activity. Proximity to home or worksite is particularly important, as is the availability of on-site showering and changing facilities.