Neighbourhood walkability and its particular importance for adults with a preference for passive transport.
In this study, differences in physical activity between adults living in high versus low walkable neighbourhoods were examined. In Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, neighbourhood walkability was defined by geographical map data and observations. One high walkable and one low walkable neighbourhood were selected. A sample of 120 adults between 20 and 65 years old, agreed to participate in the study and wore a pedometer for seven days. Self-reported physical activity and psychosocial data were collected. Results showed that residents of the high walkable neighbourhood took more steps/day and walked more for transport in their neighbourhood. Further analyses showed that living in a high walkable neighbourhood was associated with taking more steps, especially in adults with a preference for passive transport and/or a low intention to walk or cycle. In a health promotion context, these results are very promising.
Van Dyck
Delfien
D
Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO), Belgium. Electronic address: delfien.vandyck@ugent.be.
Deforche
Benedicte
B
Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO), Belgium.
Cardon
Greet
G
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
De Bourdeaudhuij
Ilse
I
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001530:Belgium; D004779:Environment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011633:Public Facilities; D011998:Recreation; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D014186:Transportation; D014504:Urban Health; D016138:Walking; D055815:Young Adult