Walking and cycling in cities require specific characteristics of urban space. Active travel requires compact and diverse cities that generate proximity and distances between daily activities that can be covered on foot or by bicycle. Vital cities that encourage the use of active transportation. When living in environments not designed for pedestrians and bicycles or in environments with morphological conditions (density, diversity, design) that cannot support these modes of transport, active mobility is not a viable alternative.

Walkable and bikeable cities promote a healthy lifestyle and reduce dependence on the automobile, while having a positive impact on the environment. In addition, they promote physical and mental health, encourage social interaction and equal opportunities, and have economic benefits for residents and the public sector.

There are five urban features that enable active mobility: