Linking urban green space characteristics to physical activity: observational evidence from Casablanca

Abstract

Evidence on how urban green space characteristics influence physical activity remains limited in North African cities. This participatory study examined nine target areas – trails, playgrounds, outdoor exercise zones, and a sports court – across four Casablanca green spaces differing in size, form, facilities, and environmental quality. Using the Community Park Audit Tool (CPAT) and the Method for Observing Physical Activity and Well-being (MOHAWk), 6,199 observations were analyzed through multinomial logistic regression. Usage patterns varied across sites. Patterns of use and physical activity intensity varied substantially across target areas and facility types. Playgrounds attracted high numbers of users but were predominantly associated with moderate or sedentary activity, whereas sports courts and some trails showed stronger associations with vigorous activity. Higher facility quality (OR = 1.12) and amenity availability (OR = 1.16) predicted moderate activity, while vigorous activity was associated with higher park aesthetics (OR = 1.44) and park quality (OR = 2.26). These findings provide observational evidence from a North African city that urban green space characteristics – not simply their size or presence – shape physical activity patterns. This contributes to urban health and green-space planning in Global South contexts by highlighting the importance of context-sensitive, inclusive park design for promoting active, equitable urban environments.