Exercising in a Dense Concrete Jungle: A Study on the Relationship Between the Quantity and Quality of Exercising, Urban Density, and Perceived Safety in the City

Cities have grown rapidly in recent decades. Several studies have related multiple mental and physical health issues with urban density and perceived safety, related to the increasing urbanization. Studies have established a relationship with urban density and perceived safety with light physical activity as well. However, few researchers to date have specifically focused on the potential association between both factors and regular physical exercise. The current study examined the association of urban density and perceived safety with the quantity and quality of exercise. A population-representative sample (N=124) was surveyed on their quantity of exercise, quality of exercise, experiences regarding urban density, and perceived safety. All four factors were compared to assess relations between the measures. Furthermore, various demographic and density-related subgroups (gender, residency type, and square living space) were selected to assess differences and alternative explanations...Show moreCities have grown rapidly in recent decades. Several studies have related multiple mental and physical health issues with urban density and perceived safety, related to the increasing urbanization. Studies have established a relationship with urban density and perceived safety with light physical activity as well. However, few researchers to date have specifically focused on the potential association between both factors and regular physical exercise. The current study examined the association of urban density and perceived safety with the quantity and quality of exercise. A population-representative sample (N=124) was surveyed on their quantity of exercise, quality of exercise, experiences regarding urban density, and perceived safety. All four factors were compared to assess relations between the measures. Furthermore, various demographic and density-related subgroups (gender, residency type, and square living space) were selected to assess differences and alternative explanations. Results found associations between all measures, apart from the relation between the quantity of exercise and urban density. Regarding the subgroups, a difference was found between genders and their perceived safety; men felt safer than women. The difference in perceived safety suggested that gender could be a factor related to the quantity and quality of exercise. No differences in urban density, exercise quantity, or quality were found among both residency types and square living spaces; suggesting that both subgroups are not likely to be relevant for the associations of urban density and safety with exercise. More focus should be put on specific measures of the urban environment instead of the home environment. Given the increasing urbanization, more specific research is necessary to better understand the relation between urban density, perceived safety, and regular exercise.Show less

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Exercising in a Dense Concrete Jungle: A Study on the Relationship Between the Quantity and Quality of Exercising, Urban Density, and Perceived Safety in the City