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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Reading Malaysia

    Johor Bahru, Johor, 79200, Malaysia