Science says exercising outside makes you happier than hitting the gym

By Stephen Beech

Exercising in the great outdoors is far more beneficial than working out in the city or at a gym, according to new research.

Getting active in "green" surroundings improves mood, reduces stress levels, and improves heart rate compared to exercising indoors or in urban areas, say scientists.

The study, published in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise , showed that one hour of brisk walking in a forest, on a beach, or in a park reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and makes exercise easier to enjoy.

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark , and the University of Verona in Italy conducted an experiment involving 25 young men.

The participants had to walk at the same pace in three different environments: a natural area, an urban route, an