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Does the Built Environment Influence Physical Activity? Examining the Evidence

Keywords / Description:

This report examines the connection between the built environment and the physical activity levels of the U.S.  population. Major innovations in automation and technology have substantially reduced the physical requirements of daily life. The decentralization of metropolitan area population and employment to suburbia has increased travel distances and made the private vehicle the most practical form of transportation rather than walking and bicycle riding. The built environment is an important potential contributor to reduced levels of physical activity and this report examines long-term trends affecting physical activity levels, research design and recommendations.

Toolkit:

Chronic Disease Prevention Toolkit

Keyword Area:

Chronic Disease, Disability, Environmental Health, Health Promotion and Health Education, Strategic Planning

Jurisdiction:

Institutional Author:

Transportation Research Board of the National Academies

Submitted:

02/27/2007

Modified:

07/15/2010

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