Walking, Cycling, and Obesity Rates in Europe, North America, and Australia

This study examines the relationship between active transportation and obesity rates.

  • Walking and bicycling are far more common in European countries than in the United States, Australia, and Canada, where active transportation is inversely related to obesity.
  • The results do not prove causality although they suggest that active transportation could be one factor that explains international differences in obesity rates.

Bassett, David R., Pucher, John, Buehler, Ralph, Thompson, Dixie L. and Crouter, Scott E. "Walking, Cycling, and Obesity Rates in Europe, North America, and Australia." Journal of Physical Activity and Health. 5.6 (2008):795-814.

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