Physical, Social, Emotional & Intellectual Benefits of Outdoor Recreation

If you’ve ever noticed that you feel better after engaging in outdoor activities, you’re not alone. Time spent in outdoor recreation leads to a range of benefits, from reduced obesity rates to strengthened family ties, according to Robert Manning, professor of recreation management at the University of Vermont. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along a nature trail or a strenuous hike up a steep mountain path, outdoor recreation sites provide the setting for physical and mental growth.

Physical Benefits

Regular outdoor activity provides a number of physical health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced arthritis pain, weight loss and lowered risk of diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Getting 150 minutes of moderate exercise -- such as biking or brisk walking -- or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week -- such as hiking or cross-country skiing -- help maintain a healthy weight and reduce risk of chronic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A 2009 study in the “Journal of Park and Recreation Administration” found a correlation between access to outdoor recreational spaces and overweight, obesity and adults’ physical activity levels. Specifically, less-active and more overweight adults spent less time participating in non-motorized physical activities in recreational areas.

Social Benefits

Physical, Social, Emotional & Intellectual Benefits of Outdoor Recreation

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Along with an increase in physical activity, outdoor recreation offers the chance to socialize, an important benefit in itself. For instance, birdwatching incorporates several activities, including the physical movement of walking, interpreting visual and auditory input, and speaking to other birdwatchers, according to a 2010 report from Resources for the Future. The report also notes that social settings of outdoor spaces, especially urban parks, are associated with positive experiences. Outdoor physical activity can also increase pride in the community, as well as offer the chance to meet people with similar interests, says Kent State University professor Andrew Lepp.

Intellectual Benefits

Outdoor activities lead to an increased confidence, improved creativity and better self-esteem, according to Lepp. Natural settings rejuvenate and calm the mind, improve outlook and increase positive affect. In contrast, artificial environments may cause feelings of exhaustion, irritability, inattentiveness and impulsivity, according to Resources for the Future. Outdoor time can even help you focus; 2009 research in the “Journal of Attention Disorders” shows that 20-minute walks through natural settings lead to improved concentration.

Emotional Benefits

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Both physical activity and outdoor settings reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Spending time exercising in a park leads to an increase in positive moods and a reduction in cortisol levels, a hormone released when the body feels stress. Similarly, increased access to green space for activities such as walking decreases stress -- especially for children, according to Cornell University environmental psychologist Nancy Wells.