Towards More Physical Activity in Cities
Advancing health and well-being in cities with WHO
Actions to increase rates of physical activity will be necessary to achieve global targets on the prevention of premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases – the leading cause of death worldwide – and to halt the rise in obesity. This publication provides inspiration and guidance on how different cities, in different contexts and at different stages of development, can use planning to encourage more physically active lifestyles for their residents. Credit: Gehl
In Europe, estimates suggest more than 1/3 of adults are insufficiently active. High levels of physical inactivity observed across the WHO European Region present an enormous challenge for both national governments and city authorities to improve public health. Incorporating active transport as part of the daily commute is a cornerstone of Copenhagen’s approach. Credit: Gehl
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are diverse, but interconnected and indivisible. A strong focus on making cities conducive to physical activity could help achieve many of the SDGs in rich and complex ways. We highlight examples of how urban planning strategies and improvements to public space contribute to achieving the goals. Credit: Gehl
Amongst the many factors influencing our health, the built environment sets the physical framework for the places and activities we each have access to. Systematically and strategically reducing the number of physical barriers, whilst increasing conducive conditions for more physical activity is key to encourage active lifestyles. Factors influencing physical activity in communities (Edwards and Tsouros 2006). Credit: Gehl