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The Effects of Nature-Based Activity vs. Indoor Exercise on Cognition, Psychological, and Physiological Health
Sponsor: University of Reading
Summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the comparative effects of nature-based versus indoor exercise interventions on cognitive performance, psychological well-being, and physiological stress in Malaysian adults. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: (1) active nature engagement (walking outdoors), (2) passive nature engagement (seated outdoor observation), (3) indoor treadmill walking, or (4) a no-intervention control group. The study will examine changes in attention, working memory, affect, blood pressure, body composition, and salivary cortisol across baseline, mid-point, and post-intervention assessments.
Official title: The Effects of Nature-Based Activity vs. Indoor Exercise on Cognitive, Psychological, and Physiological Health: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2025-07-07
Completion Date
2025-12-31
Last Updated
2025-09-02
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Active Nature Engagement
Participants in this group will walk at a comfortable pace for 30 minutes in an urban park, three times per week for four weeks. They will be guided to focus on their surroundings using a grounding exercise (e.g., noticing sights, sounds, and smells) and instructed not to use mobile phones or listen to music during the walk.
Passive Nature Engagement
Participants in this group will sit quietly for 30 minutes in a designated spot within an urban park, three times per week for four weeks. They will engage in grounding exercises and draw aspects of the natural environment. Participants will be instructed not to use mobile phones or listen to music during the walk.
Indoor Exercise
Participants will be asked to walk on a treadmill in an indoor room without windows for 30 minutes. The treadmill will be set to the speed that match the average pace in nature walk group (approximately 3 km/hr). The speed could be adjusted by the participant if needed, but kept within the range of 2.6 km/hr to 4.6 km/hr. Participants will be asked to not use their phones or listen to music.
Locations (1)
University of Reading Malaysia
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia