Built environment and physical activity : a literature review and case study on Singapore

• Main Author: Cheong, Titus Wai Kin
• Other Authors: Nicholas Giles Aplin
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: DRNTU::Science
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/70080
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Globally, physical inactivity is on a rise and this is a major area of concern as it has been identified to be one of the top causes for global mortality. As such, current research has focused on the relationship between the built environment and physical activity to explore ways to promote and support the latter. Even though literature in this field has broadened by much, there is still a lack of studies done in Singapore. Hence, the purpose of this study was not only to gain a deeper insight into the relationship between the built environment and physical activity but also to discuss its relevance in Singapore’s context. Twenty-five studies that assessed associations between the built environment and physical activity were reviewed and key findings were selected as main discussion points. Three built environmental characteristics were found to display relatively consistent and significant associations with physical activity – 1) Residential Density, 2) Land Use Mix, and 3) Street Connectivity. Research reveals that Singapore has recognized the influence that these environmental characteristics have on physical activity and has been intentionally shaping her land accordingly to encourage physical activity amongst her population.