The Hamburg Method for active cities: a multi-level framework for evidence-based urban physical activity promotion

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a persistent global public health challenge, particularly in urban settings where complex social, environmental, and infrastructural factors shape opportunities for physical activity. Despite extensive evidence on effective interventions, a persistent gap remains between research, policy, and long-term implementation within municipal systems. In response, the city of Hamburg established the Science and Transfer Center Active City at the University of Hamburg as a permanent science–policy interface supporting the Active City Strategy. Building on this institutional foundation, the Hamburg Method for Active Cities was developed as an evidence-informed, multi-level governance framework. The method integrates population-level monitoring, behavioral and contextual data analysis, intervention development, and impact evaluation within a continuous, institutionalized science-policy-practice loop. By combining individual health data, epidemiological cohort studies, and spatial and socioeconomic indicators, it enables small-area, equity-oriented, place-based interventions. This conceptual framework paper illustrates how the Hamburg Method operationalizes physical activity promotion as a systematic governance process embedded in municipal structures. Using Hamburg as a case study, we highlight its potential as a transferable model for cities seeking sustainable, evidence-informed strategies to promote physical activity.