The Built Environment and Active Transport to School (Beats) Study held a symposium at the University of Otago this week to showcase the findings of the study to date.
The Beats study, which is conducted by a multi-disciplinary research team led by the university's School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, is investigating the means of getting to school, and the physical and lifestyle factors of Dunedin secondary school pupils.
Seven presentations of the intensive study were presented by six members of the Beats research team at Tuesday's symposium, including findings in physical activity, screen time and nutrition habits, motivations and barriers for walking to school, cycle skills training, a look into Generation Y behaviours, and the Beats Study design and implementation.
Research team leader Dr Sandy Mandic, of the University of Otago, said the symposium was a great way of gathering those involved and she was ''really pleased'' with the turnout.
''It's wonderful to have the opportunity to have all of the speakers here discussing their investigations.
''Everyone is welcomed to ask the speakers questions at the end of the symposium to further their knowledge of the study and research,'' Dr Mandic said.
The surveying of 12 Dunedin high schools started in mid-February this year and will continue until 2015.
The Beats study is funded through research grants, including from the University of Otago and the Dunedin City Council.
By Amiee Robson
