| dc.description.abstract | Background: Globally obesity rates and car use are increasing. Active transportation is suggested to mitigate both problems. In the Netherlands, 47% of all car trips are short-distance trips under 7.5 km, which can easily be converted into active transportation modes, such as walking or cycling. Most Dutch citizens do agree on the importance of exercise and movement, with fitness being the most practiced sport. The aim of this research is to explore the relationship between the health values of Dutch active gym members and their transportation mode choices. To ultimately broaden transportation choice literature as well as serve to develop more efficient and effective transportation policies or interventions. Methods: A total of nineteen active gym members of a local gym in Utrecht have been interviewed, nine car users, and ten cyclists. Interviews contained topics relating to transportation behavior, health values, and a combination of the two. Interviews were coded using Nvivo and analyzed alongside existing literature and conceptual framework.
Results: Cyclists and car users have similar health values but differ in sports-related goals. Cyclists primarily focus on preventing health-related ailments and maintaining fitness, while car users mainly work out to build muscle. The type of sports-related goals was strongly linked to chosen transportation mode. Other aspects that can support or undermine the use of active transportation were habit, attitude toward cycling, and experienced barriers to cycling. Conclusion: Car users do value their health and are aware cycling is healthier, however, cycling is often not aligned with sports-related goals. Other factors such as habit, attitude, and experienced barriers often override the health benefits associated with cycling. Interventions that focus on providing knowledge on health benefits and policies that create barriers to car use are recommended. | |
