Research Highlights Benefits of Physical Activity in Natural Settings

There are amplified health advantages to combining exercise with nature exposure

Want to swap your client’s regular exercise session for a brisk walk through a lush forest or a jog along a scenic trail? Go for it. According to recent findings, this simple change could significantly boost their overall well-being

A recent review published by Jay E. Maddock, PhD and Howard Frumkin, MD, in the journal Lifestyle Medicine delves into the growing recognition of the health benefits associated with physical activity in natural settings (PANS). Their work highlights the combined advantages of exercise and nature exposure, suggesting that natural environments may enhance the well-documented benefits of physical activity.

Despite widespread knowledge of the importance of physical activity, many Americans remain sedentary. Current CDC data reveals that over one-quarter of Americans reported no leisure-time physical activity in the past month, and only 24% meet both aerobic and muscle-strengthening guidelines. This stagnation has driven researchers to explore new approaches to motivate inactive individuals.

Benefits of Green Exercise

Maddock and Frumkin’s review examines the existing evidence on PANS and its potential to offer additional health benefits compared to physical activity in indoor or urban settings. The concept of “green exercise” posits that natural environments might amplify the positive effects of physical activity. Research has shown mixed but promising results: outdoor activities in nature are often associated with improved mood, better cognitive function and increased enjoyment compared to equivalent indoor exercises.

For instance, studies cited in the review found that participants who walked on nature trails exhibited greater cognitive improvements and higher levels of meditative states than those who walked on indoor tracks. Similarly, outdoor cycling led to better social interactions and improved directed attention compared to indoor cycling.

The review also underscores the importance of access to natural spaces . Proximity to parks, trails, and other green spaces significantly increases the likelihood of physical activity. Community-level factors such as the availability of safe and well-maintained parks, programming, and social support further encourage the use of these spaces for exercise. Notably, the perception of safety and quality of these environments plays a critical role in their utilization.

Additionally, the researchers highlight the specific needs of various populations when promoting PANS. For marginalized communities, improving access to natural spaces can address health disparities and provide substantial benefits. However, caution is advised to prevent green gentrification, which can displace long-standing community members.

Nature’s Prescription

Health and wellness professionals are encouraged to play an active role in promoting PANS. Programs like “NatureRx” or “ParkRx,” where clinicians prescribe time in nature, have shown potential in increasing patients’ nature contact. Fitness professionals can also model this behavior, engage in community efforts to enhance outdoor spaces, and advocate for policies that direct health funds towards the creation and maintenance of parks and green spaces.

While the evidence around PANS is still developing, the review points to a promising approach for promoting two significant health behaviors simultaneously: physical activity and nature contact. Future research, particularly long-term studies, is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits and how best to implement PANS initiatives for diverse populations.

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