13 Knowledge transfer of successful schemes

ISuccessful solutions exist in many areas related to encouraging
physical activity for children in European municipalities.
Municipalities should exchange a great deal of information and
pass on their best practices. Within Europe there should be a
platform for municipalities to exchange and manage knowledge,
and ensure that high-quality information is available if
required. This should be available in several languages.

Some European countries and municipalities have already initiated
successful programmes for the promotion of physical activity. In
finding a solution for the respective municipality it is often helpful
to be able to discuss and exchange the possible transfer of ideas
and concepts on an inter-municipal or international level. Some
countries have a longer tradition when it comes to promoting physical
activity among their citizens. For instance Finland already has
30 years’ experience in this field. Other European countries can
benefit from such resources, and in the exchange one can reflect
more easily on one’s own work and review and adapt one’s programmes
accordingly. Knowledge transfer can be effected for
instance in topic-related networks (e.g. Cities for Sports), via Internet
platforms, relevant media or congresses.

However, an inter-sectoral exchange should also take place on studies
and measures to promote physical activity among children already
successfully carried out. This includes a lively exchange with
representatives of educational institutions, such as kindergartens,
schools and universities to receive valuable information on the target
group on the one hand and, on the other, also to gather information
on planned concepts and approaches. This can result in synergies
and incentives for new multi-faceted measures and
programmes. Programmes are all the more effective if the stakeholders,
the children and their families learn more about the positive
effects of exercise and get more information on how the children’s
everyday environment can be made more active.

Exchange between science and praxis
Beside the described inter-municipal exchange it is necessary to
connect scientific know-how more closely with practical implementation.
Evidenced-based approaches (Guideline 16) are often known
in science, while for implementing measures practical knowledge
is relevant. The combination of both exists rather seldom.

Best Practice Cities for Sports

The EU project “You need exercise!” created a platform
where the cities can discuss and find out about inter-sectoral
approaches. In near future it will be possible not only
to gain information on best practices in Europe but also to
receive complete concepts from various cities.

More information:
www.citiesforsports.eu