People who are tired of communities with no access to safe walkable and bikeable roads will surely find a haven in Somerville, MA. In 2006, The Boston Globe selected Somerville as the best run city in the state because of its numerous community programs and projects that enhance social, economic, and physical welfare. Two studies further prove that Somerville MA real estate presents one of the best places for buyers, who are eager to continue or shift to an active lifestyle.
The Problem of Adolescent Obesity
A dominant public health concern in the U.S. is childhood obesity. In 2007, around 29% of the youth were considered overweight or obese. Studies indicated that increases in obesity rates can be partially associated with lower physical activity (PA) among adolescents. During the same year, approximately 35% of adolescents attained the national guidelines for PA. Furthermore, PA levels commonly drop in the middle-school-age levels, making this a critical point for promoting an active lifestyle.
An Active Community for Healthy Kids
In 2003, an Active Living by Design (ALbD) partnership was organized to encourage active living through the promotion of PA, nutrition instruction, policy changes, and community environment changes. Chomitz and fellow researchers studied the impact of the program on Somerville middle school students in comparison with another community that had a similar undertaking. Findings showed that Somerville students were more capable of meeting moderate physical activity (MOD-PA) of at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days per week, as well meeting 60 minutes of PA. Moreover, students in Somerville had more access to public recreational spaces. The study indicates the role of civic engagement, policy making, changed environments, and education to improved health outcomes.
Another study from Burke and associates in 2009 evaluated ALbD too. They learned that the ALbD produced an active task force that participated in health-promotion efforts and influenced decision-making that prioritized pedestrian and bicycle transportation. In fact, social initiatives drove political and cultural changes and, in turn, made Somerville more conscious of improving the health of its residents.
Somerville MA real estate showcases a local community that desires and works for a better future for its children. The emphasis on health-conscious living through nutrition education and creating spaces for PA sends a strong message to residents and interested buyers. Somerville, MA is a place where people strive to be healthy and support one another, especially the youth, as they walk on the path to healthy living.
Call us at Buyer’s Choice Realty today for a no-obligation consultation about Somerville MA real estate and our services as exclusive buyer agents. Our Office: 978-468-2138.
