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Active School Commuting in School Children: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Future Research Implications

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  • Ho Yeung Lam

    (School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia)

  • Sisitha Jayasinghe

    (School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia)

  • Kiran D. K. Ahuja

    (School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia)

  • Andrew P. Hills

    (School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia)

Abstract

Active school commuting (ASC) has been proposed as a practical way to inculcate positive physical activity habits in children. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding ASC among children, highlights advances in research techniques and existing limitations in the field, and outlines future implications for research and promotion. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify English language studies on ASC among children aged 6–12 years, followed by a narrative review. ASC has witnessed a global decline, despite evidence of its contribution to physical activity levels. Context-dependent factors such as commuting distance and parental safety concerns are consistently identified as key determinants of ASC. Several promising interventions have been identified. Despite the limitations in intervention scope and quality, notable advancements in research techniques, such as multilevel regression and agent-based modelling, have been identified. Effective promotion of ASC to tackle childhood physical inactivity requires collaborative efforts among schools, parents, and the government, and should be tailored to address multilevel determinants within the local context. Future research should leverage recent advancements in research techniques to develop effective promotion strategies, while considering the context-dependent nature of ASC behaviours and addressing existing limitations, including the lack of standardised definitions and limited geographical and age coverage.

Suggested Citation

  • Ho Yeung Lam & Sisitha Jayasinghe & Kiran D. K. Ahuja & Andrew P. Hills, 2023. "Active School Commuting in School Children: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Future Research Implications," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(20), pages 1-20, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:20:p:6929-:d:1260961
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    References listed on IDEAS

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