The Role of Parks and Recreation in Obesity Prevention Policy


By The National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Sector Committee | Posted on March 12, 2025

NPAP Blog 4

This blog post is part of an ongoing series to inform park and recreation professionals about the strategies in the National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks (CRFP) physical activity sector.

The State of Obesity 2024 report from Trust for America’s Health reveals a troubling trend: obesity rates in the United States have steadily climbed for over two decades. More than 40 percent of U.S. adults are now obese, with Black and Latino adults, as well as rural residents, facing the highest rates. These groups often lack access to healthy food and safe places to exercise.

Childhood obesity is also alarming, with nearly 20 percent of children and teens affected. Black and Latino youth are disproportionately impacted.

The root causes of obesity are multifaceted. National dietary trends, coupled with socioeconomic disparities, play significant roles. Limited access to affordable, nutritious food, lack of safe places for physical activity, poverty, and discrimination all contribute to the problem. To address this issue effectively, we need a comprehensive, systemic approach. Cross-sector public policies should be implemented to make healthy choices accessible and affordable for everyone.

Among those sectors, parks and recreation is uniquely positioned to promote physical activity, foster social connection and inspire healthier lifestyles. The NPAP calls for state and local policymakers and funders to support park development in high-need areas, prioritizing equity and community engagement when planning park development or updates. To achieve this, park and recreation organizations and their partners must advocate.

Telling Your Story

One of the most powerful tools park and recreation professionals have is the ability to tell their stories. By sharing the impact of your programs and initiatives, parks and recreation can advocate and inspire policymakers, funders and the public to support its work. Here are some tips for effectively communicating your department’s impact:

  • Use Data: Quantify the impact of your programs, such as increased participation rates, reduced obesity rates and improved mental health outcomes.
  • Share Personal Stories: Highlight the transformative experiences of individuals benefitting from your programs.
  • Collaborate with Local Media: Partner with journalists and local media outlets to share stories about the positive impact of parks and recreation on the community.
  • Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook to connect with your audience and share success stories. Choose social media platforms that policymakers engage with.
  • Build Relationships with Policymakers: Regularly communicate with elected officials to advocate for increased funding and supportive policies.

By taking a proactive role in promoting health and well-being, park and recreation professionals can help create a healthier future for our communities.

Deborah A Cohen, Steven F. Loy, Esmeralda Castro, Aaron Hipp, Tim Hughes and Andrew Kaczynski are the National Physical Activity Plan’s Community Sector Committee members who contributed to this blog post. Thanks to special contributor Zachary S. Farley, MPH, Doctoral Candidate at University of Oregon.

The National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) is a set of policies, programs, and initiatives to help support physical activity among individuals in the United States. This posting is the second in an ongoing blog series to inform park and recreation professionals about the strategies in the Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks (CRFP) physical activity sector.

Other Blog Posts in this Series: