Influence of Urban Design on Physical Activity in Neighborhoods

Research reveals how urban design impacts residents' physical activity levels. Accessible green spaces, pedestrian infrastructure, and safety are key to healthier neighborhoods.

2 min read

Recent research highlights the significant role urban design plays in promoting or hindering physical activity among residents. A study conducted by the Nursing and Health Promotion group in Bilbao examined three neighborhoods, employing participatory methods like Photovoice, where residents documented elements affecting their activity levels through photographs. The findings underscore that accessible green spaces, multi-purpose facilities, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure are crucial in encouraging active lifestyles.

Participants identified that areas with well-maintained, versatile spaces that cater to various activities tend to foster more physical activity. Accessibility emerged as a key factor, with steep slopes and poorly connected pathways acting as barriers. The presence of urban lifts and moving walkways was appreciated as facilitating mobility, especially for individuals with limited movement.

Perception of safety was another determinant; traffic was widely perceived as the primary threat, restricting outdoor activities. Narrow, poorly lit sidewalks and obstructed pathways further discouraged walking and outdoor engagement. These insights reveal the importance of comprehensive urban planning that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and the availability of quality recreational areas.

The study emphasizes the importance of involving residents in urban planning processes to better address community-specific needs. Through participatory approaches like Photovoice, citizens’ perspectives directly inform policy recommendations, fostering social change and more effective resource allocation. The researchers advocate for urban environments designed with community input to reduce sedentary behaviors and promote healthier, more active lifestyles.

This study underscores that thoughtful urban design can transform neighborhoods into spaces that support physical activity, thereby contributing to better public health outcomes. Efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure, safety, and accessibility are vital steps toward tackling sedentary behaviors in urban populations.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-neighborhood-urban-physical-inhabitants.html