With good planning, communities can be designed so that the different urban environments promote movement. Land use, transport systems and architecture influence how people move, as does the form and design of outdoor and indoor environments. For example, people are more physically active in their daily lives if pedestrian and bicycle paths, walking routes, green spaces, fitness facilities and other services are easily accessible and safe.

It has also been shown that differences in physical activity between population groups are reduced when there are good opportunities to move around outdoors. A common everyday activity is active transportation: walking or cycling to get between places. Infrastructure that encourages both young and older people to walk and cycle also enables them to lead active lives, maintain social relationships and be independent and autonomous.

Another important element of community planning is to provide people with access to natural environments, parks and spontaneous sports venues: environments that meet different interests and activity levels, where there is something for everyone.

Good examples