Geographic location, physical activity and perceptions of the environment in Queensland adults.
Health & place 2007 ; 15: 204-9.
Duncan MJ, Mummery WK, Steele RM, Caperchione C, Schofield G
DOI : 10.1016/j.healthplace.2008.04.006
PubMed ID : 18539518
PMCID : 0
Abstract
This study examines how physical activity and perceptions of the built environment differ by degree of urbanisation in Queensland, Australia. A statewide sample of adults (n=1208) completed a CATI survey assessing physical activity and perceptions of the environment in July-August 2005. Results indicate that residents in metropolitan areas were more likely to report the presence of shops and services, footpaths, heavy traffic and physical activity facilities than non-metropolitan residents. Although geographic location was not associated with achievement of sufficient levels of physical activity or walking, a notable interaction in the associations between both physical activity measures and the presence of footpaths in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas was observed. This finding suggests the presence of a differential mechanism in terms of the relationships between physical activity and environmental supports by geographical location. Such effects require future investigation in terms of replication and understanding.