A Green Exercise Lifestyle: The Relationship between Outdoor Exercise, Nature Connection, and Pro-Environmental Behavior

This study investigates the hypothesized relationship between green exercise, nature connection, and pro-environmental behavior, exploring how engagement in outdoor exercise influences individuals' environmental attitudes and behaviors. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through surveys, interviews, and personal reflection. Findings reveal that outdoor exercise participants exhibit equal or stronger connections to nature and higher levels of pro-environmental behavior than their indoor counterparts– nature connection scores for outdoor groups were consistently equal to or higher than those of indoor groups, and their pro-environmental behavior scores significantly surpassed indoor groups. Subgroup trends highlighted unique patterns, such as a productivity-driven focus among pool swimmers and outdoor and indoor gym users and consistently high connection scores across both indoor and outdoor yoga practitioners. These findings underscore the potential of green exercise as a catalyst for enhancing environmental awareness and sustainable behavior. Promoting outdoor exercise not only benefits individual well-being but also fosters a collective environmental ethic, providing a compelling case for increasing access to and opportunities for green exercise in diverse communities. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainability and equity, advocating for integrative strategies that prioritize environmental and social health.