Source: Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 7:4.

Authors: Sylvia Titze, Billie Giles-Corti, Matthew Knuiman, Terri Pikora, Anna Timperio, Fiona Bull, Kimberly van Niel

Commentary by Rona Macniven, Cluster for Physical Activity and Health (CPAH), University of Sydney

These latest findings from the RESIDE study, a longitudinal study in Perth examining associations between neighbourhoods and health, cross-sectionally investigates the relationships of perceived neighbourhood environmental attributes and intrapersonal factors to cycling. Findings suggest attractive neighbourhoods, low traffic speed and increased street connectivity are associated with increased levels of cycling.

A total of 1813 residents in new neighbourhoods in the RESIDE study completed a questionnaire about socio-demographic factors, their cycling behavior and individual, social environmental, and neighborhood environmental attributes relating to cycling for both transport and recreation.

Results indicated positive individual attitudes toward cycling and perceived behavioral control increased likelihood of cycling for either transport or recreation. In terms of neighborhood environmental attributes, leafy and attractive neighborhoods, access to bicycle/walking paths, the presence of traffic slowing devices and having many four-way street intersections were positively associated with cycling for transport. The presence of many local alternative routes in the local area was associated with higher levels of cycling for recreation.

These findings demonstrate the important intrapersonal and neighbourhood characteristics to assist in increasing cycling levels which should be used to inform cycling promotion campaigns and the design and modification of neighbourhoods. As the RESIDE study continues, further insightful findings on ways to increase physical activity through the built environment will emerge, particularly when longitudinal results become available.

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