There is growing evidence to suggest that people who regularly walk and, in the case of Green Gym participants, work out in a natural environment are both physically and mentally healthier than people who don’t—they have fewer diseases, are less likely to get cancer, have a lower risk of heart attack and stroke, and have better bone density, so are at a lower risk of osteoporosis. There is also some evidence that working out in a Green Gym may burn more calories than certain conventional gym classes.
Being in a green environment has been associated with lower levels of stress and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, while interacting with nature can improve cognition for children with attention deficits and individuals with depression.
References:
Thompson et al., 2012; Beyer et al., 2014; Taylor and Kuo, 2009; Berman et al., 2012; Alcock et al., 2014. Veronica Reynolds, Oxford Brookes University