Employee-nature interactions: A scoping review on employees’ green exercise behaviors

BackgroundGreen exercise is emerging as a promising approach to improve employee well-being.ObjectiveThis scoping review aimed to map the existing literature on employees' green exercise behaviors.MethodsFollowing the methodological framework suggested by Arksey and O'Malley, relevant studies were identified in the Web of Science and Scopus databases on March 10, 2025. Various study types, including quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, and intervention studies published in peer-reviewed English journals, were screened. 13 studies were selected for detailed review, focusing on employed adults engaging in intentional physical activity within natural or semi-natural outdoor environments, such as parks and forests. Exclusions were applied to studies involving non-working populations, those that focused on non-exercise behaviors, as well as studies conducted in indoor or virtual environments. Editorials, opinion articles, theses/dissertations, conference papers, and non-English publications were also excluded.ResultsAmong the included studies, nature walking was the most prevalent form of green exercise. Psychological outcomes were the most frequently reported, while occupational outcomes were the least commonly addressed. The findings suggest that there is a growing body of research supporting the benefits of green exercise for employees. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the facilitators and barriers that influence employees' participation in green exercise.ConclusionsFuture research should examine underlying mediating and moderating mechanisms. Integrating theoretical frameworks from occupational health psychology and behavioral sciences will be essential to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how and why green exercise is adopted or avoided by employees.