Recreational walking and cycling in socioeconomically segregated neighborhoods: the case of Temuco, Chile

Recreational walking and cycling support adequate physical activity levels and improve public health. In highly unequal and socioeconomically segregated cities such as those in Chile, access to supportive environments for these activities may differ across neighborhoods. This study examines the associations between recreational walking and cycling and individual, social, lifestyle, attitudinal, and built environment factors in low- (NLSES) and high-socioeconomic status (NHSES) neighborhoods in Temuco, Chile. Two regression models were applied. Residents of NHSES neighborhoods are more likely to engage in recreational walking and cycling than those in NLSES areas. Participation is associated with bicycle ownership, foreign origin, attitudes toward private car use, lifestyle patterns, social encouragement, perceived safety, slope, park accessibility, and cycling infrastructure, with variations across neighborhood types. These findings highlight how socioeconomic and spatial inequalities shape recreational active mobility and provide evidence to inform equitable urban and transport policies.