Much of the current research into how to increase physical activity is focused on changes to the environment that will make walking easier. While walking is an attractive form of physical activity, the researchers at Portland State University believe that bicycling is also an attractive option. However, there is very little research on bicycling in the U.S. The team is examining the environmental, psychological, and socio-demographic factors influencing people’s decision to bicycle. Two major data collection efforts will be used: 1) a random sample survey of adults in Portland, Oregon; and 2) objective measures of bicycle use using a personal digital assistant (PDA) with a global positioning system (GPS) monitor. Measures of the environment will be made using an existing Geographic Information System (GIS) database. The main question the researchers are trying to answer is why don’t more people bicycle given its potential for transportation and recreation?
