Abstract
A sedentary lifestyle is a global and complex problem that, nevertheless, finds a very natural solution: movement. However, promoting physical activity among the population is not a simple task. It requires great efforts from individuals, society, and, particularly, from the urban environment. The concept of an active city arises as a response to make more livable and healthier cities. An increasing number of cities are committing to the active cities model. One of the most advanced is Hamburg. The Hanseatic city counts on a comprehensive strategy involving its entire territory. In this research, the main characteristics of the active city model of Hamburg will be presented and discussed, and the case of two urban interventions that show how the model can be applied to different urban settings: HafenCity and Oberbillwerder. The object of investigating the Hamburg case is to build evidence and references so that other cities can direct their urban policies and actions.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Built Environment: Human-made structures, spaces and facilities that are created to support human activities and provide the infrastructure for everyday life. The term encompasses a plethora of elements such as buildings, public spaces, transportation networks and other public infrastructure, cities, etc.
Mixed use: Urban spaces where diverse functions are physically and functionally integrated.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Pattern of behavior characterized by sitting or lying down for extended periods of time. A sedentary lifestyle is associated with a lack of physical activity and a low energy expenditure.
Active City Model: A new urban model for achieving healthier cities with greater quality of life by integrating physical activity into daily life.
Active Behavior: Physical activities that require the expenditure of energy and result in movement of the body. Active behavior does not only affect formal sports practice or other structured physical activities but includes many other practices such as strolling or active transport, walking or by bicycle, that are very effective for maintaining or improving the health.
Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Physical inactivity can be a result of a sedentary lifestyle, but it can also result from other factors, such as a lack of access to safe and convenient places to be physically active.
Urban Development Project: Planned initiative aimed at improving and transforming a specific area within a city or town. It involves the construction of new buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces, as well as the redevelopment or revitalization of existing structures and spaces.
Active Transport: Transportation modes which are wholly or primarily powered by human energy such as walking, running, and bicycling.
Active City: A City that decides to give real priority to health in all its actions, creating opportunities in the built and social environments so that citizenship can be physically active in its daily life.
Healthy Offices: Office Buildings that promote the physical, psychological, and social health and well-being of their users.
Walkability: The measure of how conducive an area is to walking as a means of transportation. It considers various factors such as the availability of sidewalks and streetlights, the proximity of destinations to access daily needs, the presence of street activity, and the overall physical and visual comfort of the environment.