Shaping Active Communities: Uncovering the Role of Residential Environments in Promoting Physical Activity in Hong Kong

This research examines the influence of residential neighborhood design on outdoor physical activity behaviors in urban settings, with a focus on Hong Kong. Using data from activity tracking applications, the study analyzes how urban design features—such as green and blue spaces, points of interest, pedestrian crossings, and built-up areas—affect engagement in outdoor activities. The Green View Index (GVI) and Blue View Index (BVI) are used to assess the availability of green and blue spaces, and their role in encouraging physical activity within residential neighborhoods. Additionally, the study explores how the density and arrangement of housing and surrounding infrastructure, including commercial buildings and pedestrian-friendly routes, impact the accessibility and appeal of physical activities.

The research also investigates how socio-demographic factors, such as age, income, and education, interact with residential design to shape activity patterns at both individual and community levels. By analyzing data from sports tracking apps, the study provides insights into how specific environmental features influence the frequency and type of outdoor activities across various neighborhoods.

The findings underscore the importance of residential neighborhood design in promoting physical activity and enhancing public health. The study offers recommendations for urban planners, housing developers, and policymakers, highlighting the potential of well-designed residential environments to foster active lifestyles through accessible green spaces, walkable streets, and thoughtfully integrated infrastructure.