URGENT UPDATE: New research reveals that train fare subsidies can significantly increase daily walking steps among prime-aged adults, a crucial finding as global health costs continue to soar. Conducted by Dr. Haruka Kato from Osaka Metropolitan University in collaboration with the Sakai City Government, this study sheds light on effective strategies to promote healthier lifestyles amid rising healthcare expenses.
Published in Research in Transportation Economics, the study involved 900 participants utilizing the HealthSmart-Senboku smartphone application over a seven-week randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into groups, with the intervention group receiving either 2,000 or 1,000 points—equivalent to 2,000 JPY or 1,000 JPY in train fare subsidies on the Senboku Rapid Railway.
The findings indicate that those subsidized with 1,000 points exhibited a remarkable increase of 711.43 steps per day among prime-aged adults (ages 20–49). However, middle-aged (ages 50–64) and older adults (aged 65+) did not show significant changes in their step counts compared to the control group.
Dr. Kato emphasized the implications of these findings, stating,
“These findings suggest that fare subsidy programs that encourage active travel require appropriate pricing. Further, this provides important insights into the effectiveness of train fare subsidy programs for prime-aged adults.”
As health officials grapple with escalating healthcare costs, these results highlight the potential of targeted subsidies to promote physical activity.
The study’s results are crucial for policymakers seeking innovative solutions to enhance public health. With a growing emphasis on preventive healthcare, understanding the dynamics of walking incentives can lead to meaningful changes in community health initiatives.
Looking ahead, cities considering similar subsidy programs must take note of these findings. Future research may explore tailored strategies to engage older demographics and maximize health benefits across age groups.
For more details, refer to the study by Haruka Kato et al, titled “Effects of a train fare subsidy program on the daily walking steps of prime-aged adults: A randomized controlled trial of the Senboku Rapid Railway,” published in January 2025.
As the conversation on health and mobility continues to evolve, this research serves as a significant step towards understanding how financial incentives can foster healthier behaviors in urban populations.
