Active mobility

Whether on foot, by bike, or by e-bike—active mobility takes many forms and can make an important contribution to health and sustainability. Regular physical activity not only improves health but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression. At the same time, active mobility supports a sustainable and climate-friendly transportation transition. 

A central focus of our research group is therefore promoting physical activity in everyday life. We place particular emphasis on low-threshold behavioral changes that can be easily integrated into daily life without much effort.

In the “A Heart for Stairs” project, we are investigating ways to promote stair use in a university setting. To this end, visual cues and motivational messages are being used in buildings at the University of Wuppertal to make the path to the stairs more appealing. The focus is on determining which messages are particularly effective for which individuals and which psychological factors can influence the decision to take the stairs or the elevator. The research is conducted under real-world, everyday conditions and combines behavioral, psychological, and environmental perspectives.

Click here to view the poster

In addition, we focus on promoting active mobility, particularly bicycle use. Through national and international collaborations—including those supported by an EHPS Innovative Initiative Grant—we investigate the psychological, social, infrastructural, and environmental factors that influence cycling. Our goal is to identify scientifically grounded approaches for measures that support sustainable and health-promoting mobility.

Staff

Prof. Dr. Theda Radtke (Lead);  Dana Braß