The built environment and physical activity behaviour change: new directions for research?

Abstract

Environmental strategies to influence physical activity are considered effective for large populations, as supportive environments are likely to assist many people to be active for long periods. Ecological models - that recognise the importance of multiple influences on physical activity, including individual, socialand environmental factors - provide theoretical underpinnings for research on environmental attributes. This commentary reflects upon past research in this area, and proposes an extended ecological model, in which physical activity is divided into adoption and maintenance. It is postulated that individual and social factors may help people to initiate physical activity, while environmental factors may be more relevant to the maintenance of physical activity. Future studies need to examine the roles of individual, social and environmental factors in bringing about wide-reaching and sustained changes in physical activity.