The Beneficial Effects of Physical Activity in Green Spaces
Why Nature Makes Exercise More Powerful
Physical activity (PA) is one of the most effective ways to improve health — from reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes to boosting mood and energy. Yet, despite decades of research supporting its benefits, physical inactivity remains a growing concern. According to Statistics Canada, only about 6 in 10 adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Physical inactivity now ranks among the top global risk factors for chronic disease and premature mortality.
In cities like Calgary, where urbanization and screen time keep many of us indoors, it’s worth asking: could reconnecting with nature make a measurable difference in our health and motivation to move?
At Eatuitive Nutrition, our dietitians and personal trainers believe the answer is yes — and science agrees.
Green Spaces and Movement: A Powerful Combination
Canada’s growing cities mean more traffic, air pollution, and sedentary work environments — all reducing our chances to move outdoors. But exposure to green spaces (parks, trails, or even community gardens) has been shown to improve both physical and mental well-being.
Studies from Health Canada and the Canadian Parks Council show that regular exposure to green environments lowers blood pressure, supports immune function, and improves mood. When combined with exercise — a practice known as green exercise — these effects multiply.
Outdoor physical activity in nature:
Reduces perceived exertion (exercise feels easier)
Improves cardiovascular markers like heart rate and blood pressure
Enhances focus and cognitive recovery
Decreases stress hormones and improves emotional resilience
If you’re looking for ways to integrate more outdoor movement into your wellness routine, our personal training and nutrition programs in Calgary can help you design a plan tailored to both your fitness level and environment.
The Mental Health Connection
Green spaces aren’t just visually calming — they physiologically calm the nervous system. Exposure to natural settings has been shown to restore directed attention, the mental capacity we use to focus amid distractions.
According to Dr. Roger Ulrich’s Stress Recovery Theory, even brief exposure to nature (as little as five minutes) can trigger feelings of calm and mental restoration. For clients balancing high workloads or family demands, we often integrate short, mindful outdoor walks as part of their nutrition and wellness plans.
Being outside also reduces perceived exertion. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people walking outdoors report lower effort and greater enjoyment than those walking on treadmills — yet they often achieve higher intensity levels.
Green Spaces Foster Social Health Too
Physical activity outdoors doesn’t just benefit the individual — it strengthens communities. Group exercise in parks or along Calgary’s river pathways often creates organic social connections that make physical activity more enjoyable and sustainable.
Our dual-certified Dietitian + Personal Trainer team in Calgary sees this first-hand: clients who include outdoor workouts tend to maintain their routines longer. Social accountability, fresh air, and scenic environments all contribute to consistency — the most important factor in long-term health success.
Overcoming Barriers: Weather, Accessibility, and Motivation
Of course, the Canadian climate brings challenges. Long winters and extreme temperatures can limit outdoor activity. However, perception matters: studies suggest that people who view local parks and trails as safe, clean, and inviting are far more likely to use them, regardless of season.
In Calgary, this could mean walking in Fish Creek Park, skating outdoors, or snowshoeing in Nose Hill. It doesn’t need to be perfect — just consistent.
If you’re unsure how to safely balance your nutrition and activity during different seasons, our Calgary nutritionists can create personalized strategies that work year-round.
Why This Matters for Public Health
Canadian researchers estimate that increasing access to and use of urban green spaces could save the healthcare system billions annually by reducing chronic disease and mental health costs (Public Health Agency of Canada). Encouraging outdoor physical activity isn’t just good for individuals — it’s a strategic investment in national wellness.
For individuals, the takeaway is simple: reconnecting with nature is one of the most powerful and cost-effective health interventions available.
Start Your Green Movement Today
Whether your goal is to lose weight, manage stress, or improve fitness, combining outdoor movement with personalized nutrition can help you feel and perform your best.
Learn more about our services and programs
Explore our testing options to measure your progress
Book a new appointment or a returning client session
Your journey toward better health doesn’t need to happen in a gym. Sometimes, all it takes is a walk through a green space — guided by the right plan and support.
