If communities want to design places where people are active, they need to understand the links between physical activity and the built environment.  A place's actual characteristics, perceived characteristics, and aesthetic appeal can all heavily influence the amount of activity that occurs there.

Active Living Research has produced a research brief and synthesis of studies about and evidence for  the relationship of rates of physical activity to the perceived aesthetics, safety, and comfort of public places such as streets and parks. The report also examines research, which indicates that improving appearances is a key factor in making a place more appealing both in general and as a place for physical activity for both adults and youth