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Economic Freedom and Participation in Physical Activity

Author

Listed:
  • Joshua C. Hall

    (West Virginia University, Department of Economics)

  • Brad R. Humphreys

    (West Virginia University, Department of Economics)

  • Jane E. Ruseski

    (West Virginia University, Department of Economics)

Abstract

Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and influences a variety of health outcomes. Across countries, economic freedom has been found to be positively associated with greater participation in physical activity and well-being. We empirically investigate the relationship between economic freedom and physical activity across U.S. states. Contrary to the cross-country results, we find that states with higher levels of economic freedom have lower rates of participation in physical activity.

Suggested Citation

  • Joshua C. Hall & Brad R. Humphreys & Jane E. Ruseski, 2015. "Economic Freedom and Participation in Physical Activity," Working Papers 15-17, Department of Economics, West Virginia University.
    • Handle: RePEc:wvu:wpaper:15-17
    as

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    File URL: https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1147&context=econ_working-papers
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    economic freedom; health outcomes; physical activity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • R5 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Regional Government Analysis

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