Get outside – feel better!

Exercising in the natural environment has greater benefits

A review published in Environmental Science and Technology analysed a number of trials of physical activity, participants in which reported that exercising outside then gives more energy, increased feelings of revitalisation and decreased tension and depression, compared with indoor physical activity. Participants also stated that they were more likely to repeat the activity in the future.

While this does suggest that efforts such as ‘green gyms’ have particular value, there is still a lack of high-quality evidence, with a need for long-term large trials. Lead author of the study, Professor Michael Depledge, commented that the research ‘adds significant weight to the case for spending more time in the ntarual environment as members of the public and their clinicians fight to counteract the negative outcomes of modern living, such as obesity and depression. We look forward to conducting the further research and trials required to establish the evidence base for introduction of outdoor activity into general lifestyle to complement therapeutic intervention.’

Source: Science Daily, 5 February 2011.

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