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We explored the influence of third places on walking habits across life stages. Our study demonstrates the unique goal structures for students, workers, and retirees, identifying key patterns shaping walking behavior in cities. Integrating these findings into urban planning can revolutionize cityscapes and promote healthier, more active communities.
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Target audience
This research is particularly relevant for urban planners, city officials, and community health organizations worldwide.
The problem
Third places play a crucial role in urban environments, acting as social spaces distinct from the home (first place) and workplace (second place), contributing to our social and physical health. However, we still do not know how they could contribute to the formation of healthy walking habits.
What we did and why
Therefore, we explore the role of third places for students, workers, and retirees. Building upon past studies that utilized Cognitive Chrono-Ethnography, a mixed-method approach examining people’s in-situ behaviour and decision-making processes, in-depth interviews questioned the role of third-place activities in the process of forming walking habits.
Our study’s contribution
Our findings revealed that students, workers, and retirees displayed distinct levels and patterns of walking habits. Moreover, we identified three goal structures, with either walking, third-place visits, or both together forming the primary goal.
Impacts for city policy and practice
Our study underscores key considerations for city policy and practice. City officers responsible for urban development, urban leaders shaping policy, and health-focused organizations seeking innovative approaches to community well-being will find valuable insights in understanding how third places impact walking habits across diverse populations. Three key considerations:
Implementing these insights can foster healthier, more active communities and guide future urban planning initiatives.
Further information
Full research article:
Third place visits and associations with walking habit formation: an exploratory study extending Cognitive Chrono-Ethnography by
Max Hanssen, Naoko Fujita, Muneo Kitajima & SeungHee Lee
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