What is Active Behavior

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.