Assessing the COVID-19 outbreak effects on active mobility of men in comparison with women

This study aims to evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on active mobility of men and women of Shiraz, Iran, and examine the relationship between perceived built environment factors and men’s and women’s active travel before and during the outbreak. The data were obtained during the pandemic from 747 men and 518 women living in Shiraz. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire-based survey. The multivariate regression was utilized for determining the effective factors on active travel. The results indicate that the amount of time men spend walking and cycling before and during the outbreak is more than that of women. Meanwhile, the amount of time men and women spend cycling has increased during the pandemic, which can indicate the resiliency of bikes in the crisis. A built environment with mixed, diverse, dense and accessible land uses, as well as safe and secure cycling and walking routes have major effects on citizens’ active mobility in this crisis. Also, for women who have a low rate of bicycle ownership, improving bike-sharing infrastructure is essential. Therefore, it is suggested that urban planners and policymakers take action to make the environment more people-friendly to maintain citizens’ mobility, especially women, during the pandemic.