ABSTRACT
The population of overweight and inactive youth, especially in urban and minority communities, is increasingly becoming a problem that schools are being asked to address given their widespread and consistent access to young people. After-school physical activity (PA) programming has proven effective as a way to increase adolescent PA; however, impoverished inner-city districts often face unique challenges in offering these programs. This chapter draws from research on effective urban after-school programming to outline common challenges related to facilities, transportation, food insecurity, and culturally relevant activities. Using a case-study approach, recommendations are suggested for creating sustainable programs by mitigating these challenges and capitalizing on factors that make after-school PA programming attractive and meaningful for urban youth.
