Benefits of SRTS programs include:

• Increased levels of daily physical activity for children.
• Increased likelihood that children and adults will choose to walk and bike for other short distance trips.
• Improved neighborhood safety.
• Fewer cars traveling through neighborhoods.
• Fewer cars congesting the pick-up and drop-off points at schools.
• Friendlier neighborhoods as people get out and about interacting with one another.

The Importance of Regular Physical Activity for Children

The United States has seen a decrease in the number of children who are physically active and an increase in the number of children who are overweight.

• Nearly half of young people aged 12-21 years are not vigorously active on a regular basis.
• About 14% of young people report no recent physical activity.
• Over the past 30 years the percentage of overweight children aged 6 to 11 years has more than doubled.

Obesity and its health risk factors tend to persist. Overweight children are more likely to become obese adults. Overweight and obese adults are at increased risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, some types of cancer and gall bladder disease.

SRTS programs encourage physical activity as an integral part of a children’s’ daily routine. Teaching children the importance and pleasure of walking and bicycling to and from school may help to increase the likelihood that they will engage in other forms of physical activity.

Potential benefits of regular physical activity for children include:

• Building and maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and joints. 
• Controlling weight, building lean muscle and reducing fat.
• Improving sense of self-image and autonomy.
• Fostering healthy social and emotional development.

For more information on the health benefit of regular physical activity, please refer to the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health: Adolescents and Young Adults