Where You Live Might Be the Key to Walking More, Says Study of 11,000 Twins
Taking a well-earned break from your laptop for a quick stroll around the block is undoubtedly one of the easiest ways to squeeze in some much needed movement. And, if you're lucky enough to live in a 'walkable neighbourhood', this could benefit your health and fitness according to a study on 11,000 twins.
Could your location increase your step count? Here's what the data says.
The Study
The study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology examined the relationship between 'neighbourhood walkability' and daily exercise using data from 11,000 twins (5,477 pairs).
The Methods
The study used a twin design which was controlled for genetic and familial factors. This enhanced 'causal inference' which means it helped clarify whether walkable neighbourhoods caused more walking rather than including active people who happen to prefer walkable areas. Walkability was assessed based on intersection density, population density, and destination accessibility. Physical activity results included self-reported neighbourhood walking, the level of walking intensity, and public transit use.
The Results
The researchers found:
A 1% increase in neighbourhood walkability led to a 0.42% increase in neighbourhood walking.
A 55% increase in neighbourhood walkability was associated with a 23% increase in weekly walking minutes. This equated to approximately 19 additional minutes per week per resident.
Higher neighbourhood walkability reduced the likelihood of residents using public transport by 32%.
Walkable neighbourhoods with dense populations and local accessible amenities like shops and parks encouraged walking.
Urban areas show high walkability, while more suburban and rural areas require driving to access amenities.
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The Conclusion
The researchers concluded that neighbourhood walkability significantly increases walking behaviours but may not influence more intense forms of exercise like running. These findings encourage the value of urban planning focused on neighbourhood walkability to promote healthier lifestyles of the general public.
What Does This Mean for Us?
Glen Duncan, a professor of nutrition and exercise physiology at Washington State University who lead the study shared, 'We have so many people in the U.S. population who don’t get sufficient activity. If we could shift the percentage of the population that just took on more plain old walking, we would see real health benefits.'
The researcher mentioned how walking could count towards the movement recommendation of 150 minutes activity a week. 'You don’t have to spend loads of money on fitness clothing and the best gear,' he said, 'Walking is a very natural thing. You just lace on some shoes and head out the door.'
Walking is a great way of supporting our health. While this study may not mean we can up sticks and move to a more 'walkable' area, it may influence the way urban planning is conducted to support public health.
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