An activity-friendly environment for all?

This thesis studies the impact of neighbourhood characteristics on physical activity patterns of families with low SES. The outcomes of this research suggest that there is more than just the physical and social aspects of the living environment. People’s perceptions and satisfaction might be even more important in shaping people’s PA behaviour. This implies that policymakers and city planners should not only focus on the physical aspects but should also take citizen’s needs and preferences into account. One can add more green to an area, but if the people are not satisfied, they will still not use it. For future plans, it is therefore important to first clarify what the people in a neighbourhood like, dislike and would like to change. To eventually design interventions tailored to the local area, based on the needs and preferences of all groups in a neighbourhood.