Promoting physical activity and active living in urban environments: the role of local governments

Abstract

People’s participation in physical activity is influenced by the built, natural and social environments in which they live as well as by personal factors such as sex and age and ability, time and motivation. Local governments have a crucial role to play in creating environments that promote opportunities for physical activity and active living. This booklet concisely overviews the best available evidence on physical activity in the urban environment and makes suggestions for policy and practice based on that evidence.