PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

It is well known that physical activity has many benefits when performed at the levels and durations recommended by organizations. Physical inactivity and therefore certain diseases are on the rise worldwide. Many studies have shown that preventable diseases place a large financial burden on countries' healthcare systems and economies. In recent years, interest in the features of the built environment associated with physical activity has increased sharply. Creating supportive built environments in residential areas can be a strategy to increase physical activity in communities. Walkable neighborhoods are characterized by the presence of characteristics that promote physical activity, such as high housing density, diversity of land uses and routes, street connectivity, pedestrian infrastructure, traffic and crime safety, and aesthetics. Research has identified relationships between perceived and objectively measured characteristics of the built environment and physical activity in adults.

Keywords

Physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, modern non-communicable diseases