Physical activity for recreation or exercise on neighbourhood streets: Associations with perceived environmental attributes

Studies have identified various environmental factors associated with physical activity. However, mixed findings have been reported on environment correlates of physical activity for recreation. Using a sample of Australian adults (n=2194), we examined perceived environmental attributes associated with recreational physical activity or exercise taking place on neighbourhood streets, which are known to be frequently used for such activity. Attractiveness, street connectivity, access to outdoor recreational facilities and access to places of interest were significantly associated with neighbourhood street use after adjusting for socio-demographic variables. Enhancing these environmental attributes and perceptions about them may be effective in promoting residents’ physical activity.