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

Konrad Reuß () and Christopher Huth
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Konrad Reuß: Chair of Sports and Health Management, Institute for Sports Science, University of the Bundeswehr Munich, 85579 Neubiberg, Germany
Christopher Huth: Chair of Sports and Health Management, Institute for Sports Science, University of the Bundeswehr Munich, 85579 Neubiberg, Germany

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 10, 1-7

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.

Keywords: green exercise; meteorological conditions; health benefits; wellbeing; reasons for engaging (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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