Nature walks outperform treadmills for brain health, study finds
NCT ID NCT07056634
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether being active in nature—like walking or sitting in a park—improves thinking, mood, and stress more than indoor treadmill walking or doing nothing. 69 adults were split into four groups and followed for four weeks. Researchers measured attention, memory, stress hormones, and blood pressure to see which activity helped most.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward simple, nature-based activities as a way to boost attention and mood without needing a gym.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed trial with 69 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The effects might be small or not last long.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Reading Malaysia
Johor Bahru, Johor, 79200, Malaysia
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