The Determinants of Walking Behavior before and during COVID-19 in Middle-East and North Africa: Evidence from Tabriz, Iran

To support the global strategy to raise public health through walking among adults, we added evidence on predictors of behavior in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by emphasizing mediator—COVID-19. During COVID-19 outbreak, restrictions encompass spread disease have disrupted normal daily lifestyles, including physical activity sedentary behavior. It was proposed that tremendous changes occurred general particular for three types walking, commute, non-commute, social compared pre-COVID-19 time. This study aimed identify determinants mentioned above, subjective objective variables before COVID-19, compare them during period a sample from Iran, which has not yet been addressed previous research. Adults (N = 603) finalized an online survey between June 5 July 15, 2021. group reported their individual/socioeconomic locations (e.g., home/work) perception features COVID-19. The paper developed six Binary Logistic (BL) regression models, with two models each type (commute, walking). For commute trips findings showed factors BMI, residential duration, p. (perceived) neighborhood type, distance transport stations job/university places, sidewalks quality, facilities attractiveness, existence shortcut routes, distance, building density were correlated walking. At same time, such associations observed density, include age, possession driving license, number family members, grocery, restaurant, parking, mall, sidewalks, land-use mix, indicated correlations non-commute However, groceries malls did correlate Ultimately age income variables, considerable proportions services/land-uses, security, etc.), status Nevertheless, most explicitly As implication our study, apparently, special actions will be needed urban authorities encourage adults enhance walkability levels fully considering both indicators types, result healthier lifestyles.