Nothing quite beats stepping outside and getting some much-needed fresh air, and when it comes to raising our heart rate, apparently lacing up and braving the weather has benefits beyond a bit of vitamin D. A new study tested the effects of walking on a treadmill versus walking outdoors and, as you may expect, it’s worth grabbing your coat.
The study published in Ecopsychology aimed to compare the effects of walking in an outdoor natural environment against participants walking in an indoor simulated natural environment on measures of perceived exertion and emotion. The researchers wanted to determine whether outdoor exercise leads to greater physical exertion (measured by heart rate) and how this relates to perceived exertion and emotional responses. It also investigated whether differences in exertion could explain the psychological benefits of outdoor exercise.
The research included:
The researchers concluded: ‘These findings are consistent with a large body of literature documenting that acute bouts of physical activity in a natural environment increase positive activated affect. Participants exercising outdoors in a natural environment achieved a higher average heart rate than those exercising indoors in a simulated natural environment, but they did not perceive they were exerting themselves to a greater degree than the indoor exercisers.’
The researchers finally noted that since outdoor walking is more energising, and may lead to greater enjoyment and persistence it may be especially relevant for those encouraging physical activity in sedentary populations. It would also be particularly relevant for those of us who are trying to adhere to new fitness goals consistently.
If we are more likely to find our modes of movement more enjoyable, we’re far more likely to stick it out long term. And with the increased benefit of an elevated heart rate, we could also potentially see further improvements in our fitness levels. So if we have the choice and availability to walk outside, we should.
Kate is a fitness writer for Men’s Health UK where she contributes regular workouts, training tips and nutrition guides. She has a post graduate diploma in Sports Performance Nutrition and before joining Men’s Health she was a nutritionist, fitness writer and personal trainer with over 5k hours coaching on the gym floor. Kate has a keen interest in volunteering for animal shelters and when she isn’t lifting weights in her garden, she can be found walking her rescue dog.
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