Strategies for Prompts to Encourage Physical Activity

Key points

  • Prompts such as signs or reminders inform and motivate people to make a choice to be active in specific places.
  • See approaches you can take, examples of what others have done, and resources.
icon: people walking with a sign.

Overview

Communities and institutions can use prompts to encourage physical activity in places such as:

  • Transit stations.
  • Worksites.
  • Universities.
  • Shopping malls.
  • Airports.
  • Walkable community environments.

Approaches

Point-of-decision signage

Motivational signs or other prompts can encourage physical activity, such as taking the stairs instead of elevators or escalators. Signs can remind people about an immediate opportunity to be physically active and provide information about the health benefits of physical activity.

Keep Reading: Stairwell Motivational Signs

Wayfinding in walkable places

Wayfinding helps people walk or use public transit with more confidence by reducing stress associated with navigating unfamiliar environments. Wayfinding signs placed at strategic points direct people to nearby destinations, including parks, recreation facilities, and other attractions.

Working together

  • Renovated Stairwells Provide Physical Activity Opportunities for Residents in Omaha, Nebraska
  • Local Walking Paths Promote Physical Activity in Yonkers, New York

Resources

Point-of-Decision Prompts to Encourage Use of Stairs
Systematic review shows prompts increase the percentage of people who choose to take the stairs rather than elevator or escalator.

Promoting Airport Walking: A Guide
Resource to help airport managers strategically place motivational signs to encourage visitors to walk.

Step Up Hawaii: Guide + All Prompts
Free signage for businesses and government agencies to encourage stair use in workplaces and public buildings.

Pathways to Better Community Wayfinding*
Helps planners and policymakers assess community practices and wayfinding policies across all transportation modes. Can be used to help address equitable and inclusive access to physical activity.

Active People, Healthy Nation. Creating an Active America, Together.

Want additional tips and resources to be active?
Learn about Active People, Healthy NationSM, CDC’s national initiative to help people be more physically active.

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Content Source:
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP)