A systematic review of the associations between neighbourhood-built environment characteristics and health-related fitness

Mini-Oral Presentation C2.2

Authors

  • Levi Frehlich University of Calgary
  • Chelsea Christie University of Calgary
  • Paul E. Ronksley University of Calgary
  • Tanvir C. Turin University of Calgary
  • Patricia K. Doyle-Baker University of Calgary
  • Gavin R. McCormack University of Calgary

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.752

Keywords:

Body Composition, Built Environment, Environment Design, Muscle Strength, Fitness

Abstract

Background: Low levels of health-related fitness is linked to chronic disease. Physical activity is a primary means of improving health-related fitness. While there is evidence suggesting that the built environment can support physical activity, it remains unclear if the built environment is also associated with health-related fitness. Purpose: To systematically review studies that have estimated associations between neighbourhood built environment and components of health-related fitness (i.e., muscular, cardiorespiratory, motor, and morphological) in adults. Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, eight databases were searched (up to August 2020). Study quality was assessed. Results: Twenty-five eligible articles underwent final synthesis and quality assessment. Most studies (23/25) included objective measures of health-related fitness. All four health-related fitness components were represented (muscular = 8/25, cardiorespiratory = 11/25, motor = 2/25, and morphological = 16/25). Overall, built environments such as higher street connectivity, higher land use mix, and availability of sidewalks were associated with health-related fitness. Notably, individual studies found that associations between the built environment and health-related fitness remained significant after controlling for physical activity. Despite most studies being high quality, all but six were cross-sectional. Conclusions: The neighbourhood built environment may support health-related fitness, independent of physical activity. Although stronger study designs are needed to establish causality, policymakers, practitioners, and urban planners may need to consider how neighbourhood built characteristics can support health via health-related fitness. Funding: This systematic review is supported by a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Foundations Scheme Grant [FDN-154331]. 

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Frehlich, L., Christie, C., Ronksley, P., Turin, T., Doyle-Baker, P., & McCormack, G. (2021). A systematic review of the associations between neighbourhood-built environment characteristics and health-related fitness: Mini-Oral Presentation C2.2. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.752