Urban planning and mobility as promoters of healthy cities

According to the WHO, the sedentary behavior contributes to the increase of obesity, diabetes, cardiorespiratory or other diseases. Despite small improvements in physical activity in some countries and regions of Europe, these appear to be overshadowed by rapid increases in sedentary behavior. Researchers argue that active commuting to school influences the level of physical activity and health of young people. But there are some parental barriers to dynamic commuting to school, like traffic volume, dangerous intersections, or distance. In these terms, two modes of transportation categories could be established: active and non-active ones. The first one implies a corporal effort all along the journey. While, in the second one the user is physically passive. Although Metro, Light Rail Transit and Bus Rapid Transit belong to the second category, they promote health benefits in at least two areas: by decreasing traffic congestions and in consequence air pollution, and by promoting walking or cycling to reach stations. That why users of transit system may be more likely to reach their recommended daily physical activity than those who use personal motor vehicles, car sharing or carpooling. Since the characteristics of the city become important in the decision to walk or ride a bicycle, urbanity and vitality must be integrated to land use and mobility policies as potential solutions for healthier cities. Density, diversity, and proximity at cities are decisive. Well-designed cities which promotes sustainable mobility like reducing journeys or promoting active modes of transport will help to achieve objectives 3 (ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages) and 11 (make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable) of the sustainable development goals. Therefore, the interrelated urban dimensions of activities, urban design and mobility will promote urbanity and urban vitality. Thus, to reach healthier cities, density, diversity, and proximity must be promoted