Green Exercise | Exercise Tool Kit

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Our ancestors had a close affinity with their natural environment, and the same need for physical activity as we do. Physical activity levels have declined in the Western world, and much of our fitness endeavors have moved indoors. Most people realize there is benefit to physical exercise, but is there added benefit to exercising outdoors?

Outdoor or green exercise is performed in natural spaces such as parks, forests, and at the seaside. I want to cover some of the potential benefits this form of exercise can provide over the indoor variety.

Benefits of green exercise

Walking – Walking outdoors has several advantages over its indoor counterpart, and can lead to enhanced feelings of:

Revitalization
Self-esteem
Energy
Pleasure and delight

Walking outdoors also decreases:

Feelings of frustration
Worry
Confusion
Depression
Tension and tiredness

Running – Compared to indoor treadmill conditions, those who run outdoors feel less

Depressed
Angry
Hostile and fatigued

Overall, there is not a lot of high-quality evidence on the topic, but it seems green exercise has a potentially greater effect on mental well-being than indoor activity. Getting outside, even for a 5-10 minute walk, can give you a mental and physical boost.

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Author: Christopher (C.J.) Eberley, PT, DPT

Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapist

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Disclaimer: The views discussed on this website are for educational purposes only. Should you have any questions please consult your physician or physical therapist. Copyright© Kinesis Physical Therapy. All Rights Reserved.

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Reference

Coon, J. Thompson, et al. “Does participating in physical activity in outdoor natural environments have a greater effect on physical and mental wellbeing than physical activity indoors? A systematic review.” Environ. Sci. Technol 45.5 (2011): 1761-1772.