Travel perceptions, behaviors, and environment by degree of urbanization

This study examines how engagement in transport-related physical activity (TPA), perceptions of the commute route, actual travel distance, and perceptions of travel distance vary by degree of urbanization in rural and remote areas of Central Queensland, Australia.

A random, cross-sectional sample of 1230 adults aged 18 years and over residing in rural and remote Central Queensland were surveyed by telephone in October-November 2006. Engagement in and attitudes towards TPA, perceptions of the commute route, actual travel distances, and perceived appropriate travel distances for TPA were assessed.

For this study 765 adults were eligible for the analysis as they traveled to an occupation. Overall, 86% of the sample commuted to their occupation by motorized modes, 71% of individuals recognized 5 km or less as an appropriate distance to travel via TPA modes, and 45% of respondents reported travel distances less than five kilometers (km) to reach their workplace. Participants from small rural and remote settings more frequently traveled greater than 20 km to reach their occupation, reported fewer sidewalks and shops, and less heavy traffic enroute compared to respondents in large rural settings.

Infrastructure for, and participation in TPA varies according to degree of urbanization. Future work in this area should target the substantial population that recognizes they could engage in TPA. As such, increasing TPA participation in these settings likely requires a cultural shift and infrastructure improvements.