Associations between the neighbourhood built environment and out of school physical activity and active travel: An examination from the Kids in the City study

Health Place. 2015 Nov:36:57-64. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.09.005. Epub 2015 Sep 30.

Abstract

This study's aim was to examine selected objectively-measured and child specific built environment attributes in relation to proportion of out-of-school time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (%MVPA) and active travel in a group of ethnically and socio-economically diverse children (n=236) living in Auckland, New Zealand. Street connectivity and distance to school were related to the proportion of trips made by active modes. Ratio of high speed to low speed roads and improved streetscape for active travel were related to %MVPA on weekdays only. Inconsistent results were found for destination accessibility. Local destinations (particularly schools) along a safe street network may be important for encouraging children's activity behaviours.

Keywords: Active travel; Child; Cycle; Neighbourhood; Walk; Walkability.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accelerometry
  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Environment Design*
  • Exercise*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • New Zealand
  • Residence Characteristics*
  • Self Report
  • Walking* / statistics & numerical data