Active commuting in children and adolescents: A narrative review of its effects on physical health, psychological well-being, and contextual factors.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/rgfpng83Keywords:
physical activity, active commuting, children, adolescents, well-beingAbstract
Physical inactivity among children and adolescents is a major public health concern. The purpose of this narrative review was to examine the available evidence on active commuting among children and adolescents and its relationship with physical health, psychological well-being, and contextual factors associated with its practice. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, including articles published between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2025, in English or Spanish, with full text available, and focused on populations aged 6 to 18 years. The initial search identified 266 records; after screening and eligibility assessment, 13 studies were included in the narrative synthesis. The findings indicate that active commuting is associated with higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, better cardiorespiratory fitness, and psychosocial benefits related to autonomy, self-efficacy, social support, and perceived well-being. Its adoption depends on contextual factors such as home-school distance, road safety, pedestrian or cycling infrastructure, neighborhood walkability, and family perceptions of safety. The reviewed evidence supports active commuting as a relevant strategy for promoting healthy lifestyles in children and adolescents, particularly when integrated into educational, family, urban, and community-based actions.
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