Relative influences of individual, social environmental, and physical environmental correlates of walking.

Abstract

This study sought to examine individual, social environmental, and physical environmental correlates of walking. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthy workers and homemakers residing in metropolitan Perth, Western Australia. Most respondents walked for transport or recreation, but only 17.2% did a sufficient amount of walking to accrue health benefits. After adjustment, the relative influences of individual, social environmental, and physical environmental factors were found to be almost equally important. Although walking is popular, few people do enough walking to benefit their health. Those who walk as well as engage in other physical activities appear more likely to achieve recommended levels of activity. Promoting walking may require a comprehensive strategy.