Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine how walking in different environments influences perceptual, affective, and psychosocial responses among physically inactive adults (<150 minutes/week). Participants completed a 10-minute moderate-intensity walk across three conditions – treadmill, campus, and garden. Measures included affective responses using the Feelings Scale and Felt Arousal Scale, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), exercise enjoyment, and psychosocial constructs related to physical activity. Results indicated generally positive affective responses to walking conditions. Significant differences were observed in arousal and perceived exertion, with higher values during the garden condition compared to the treadmill condition. Recalled enjoyment did not significantly differ across environments, although descriptive scores suggested slightly greater enjoyment in outdoor settings. Minor improvements were observed in select psychosocial variables following study participation. These findings suggest natural environments may provide a more stimulating activity experience and may inform future intervention strategies that support positive physical activity experiences across diverse populations.
DOI: 10.17615/m19r-qd80
Author: Kyaw, Emily
Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Language: English
Topic: Physical Activity and Health
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7162761232
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