Relationship Between Urban Year-Round Green Exercise and Perceived Health, Well-Being, and Reasons for Engagement

TL;DR

Exercising in urban nature year-round is linked to better health and well-being, with motivations like enjoying nature and disconnecting from daily life.

Contribution

This study identifies specific health and motivational benefits of year-round urban green exercise across different weather and socio-demographic conditions.

Findings

YRGE in adverse weather is positively linked to perceived health and well-being.

Social connectedness is influenced by environmental factors like sun exposure.

Motivations for YRGE include health improvement and nature enjoyment, varying by age and nature connectedness.

Abstract

Urban year-round green exercise (YRGE)—defined as moderate to vigorous physical activity performed regularly in natural urban settings throughout all seasons and weather conditions—has the potential to promote health, well-being, and social connectedness. This study investigates the relationship between YRGE and individuals’ perceived health status, psychological well-being, and reasons for engagement. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 408 adult participants engaged in urban green exercise. The findings indicate that physical activity in adverse meteorological conditions, such as rain, cold, and wind, is positively associated with perceived current health, health over the past 12 months, and well-being. Social connectedness is particularly influenced by environmental factors like sun exposure and heat. The study also reveals key motivational factors for YRGE participation, including improving health and fitness, disconnecting from everyday life, enjoying nature, and experiencing tranquility, with significant variation depending on age and individual nature connectedness. These results suggest that YRGE serves as an accessible and inclusive public health intervention with consistent benefits across socio-demographic groups. Urban planning and health promotion initiatives should prioritize the maintenance and accessibility of urban green spaces and offer guided YRGE programs to encourage sustainable participation across the population.