The effect of the physical environment and levels of physical activity on affective states

Purpose: The physical environment and physical activity can independently improve positive affect. The current studies investigated the effects of two opposing environments (urban versus natural) and levels of activity (walking and sitting) on affective states in either a laboratory (study 1) or an outdoor setting (study 2). Methods: Using an experimental within subject design, 70 physically inactive participants were randomly allocated to study 1 (32 female, 8 male; BMI; M=23.35 kg/m2, SD = 5.1) or study 2 (17 females, 13 males; BMI: M= 23.11 kg/m2, SD = 3.67). Participants completed 4 conditions (15 minutes of walking and sitting in each environment) over 2 visits. While doing each activity, participants either watched film clips of urban or natural outdoor settings (study 1), or were naturally immersed in an urban or a natural environment (study 2). Measures of affect were administered pre, mid and post each condition. Elements of weather were entered as a covariate (study 2). Results: Findings highlighted the benefits of being immersed in a natural outdoor environment with physical activity being key for positive effects on energy (Study 1 and 2: p<.05) and positive affect (Study 1: p<.05). Short bouts of sedentary behavior increased state negative affect (Study 1: p<.05), tiredness (Study 1: p<.05, Study 2: p<.01), calmness (Study 1 p< .05), and decreased energy levels (Study 1 & 2: p<.01). Conclusions: Attempts by policy-makers, urban planners and public health promoters should encourage greater use of natural open space to increase physical activity levels to promote acute psychological well-being.