Active Transport

What is Active Transport?

Active transport is defined as physical activity undertaken as a means of transport and not

purely as a form of recreation. Active transport generally refers to walking and cycling for

travel to and/or from a destination, but may also include other activities such as roller blading

or use of public transport.

Many people find that choosing active transport options is an effective way to build physical

activity into their daily routines and busy schedules. Active transport also has the added benefit

to communities and the environment of reduced traffic congestion and greenhouse gas

emissions.

Walking and Cycling

Walking and cycling are easy and accessible forms of activity for most Victorians. Both are

forms of aerobic activity with relatively low risk of muscle or ligament injury.

Walking is the most popular form of recreational activity for Victorians, and cycling is the

fourth most popular activity. But walking and cycling are often overlooked as means of

transport. A significant percentage of car trips in Victoria each day are for short distances,

which are easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. By choosing the active transport option, you

can build more activity into your day and reduce your auto transport costs, while contributing

to reduced traffic congestion and cleaner air, and experiencing your local community on a

whole new level.

TravelSmart

The Victorian TravelSmart program helps people reduce their dependency on the car and

choose sustainable travel alternatives such as cycling, walking or catching public transport.

TravelSmart involves State and Local Governments working with individuals, households and

organisations to identify and promote these alternatives where possible.