Date Presented

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Sean Collins

Second Advisor

Dr. Jill Lucas

Third Advisor

Dr. Price Blair

Abstract

Mental and physical health are important aspects of our lives, and maintenance of them is crucial to sustain or improve one’s quantity and quality of life. Research shows that Americans suffer greatly from physical and mental health related complications. Mental illness and chronic disease runs rampant in our society, and this is an issue that needs immediate attention. The purpose of this study was to determine if participation in outdoor activities affected physical and mental health. Based on existing research, it was hypothesized that the frequency of outdoor activity participation would have a positive correlation with more favorable physical and mental health measures. Participants included students, faculty, and staff at the University of Lynchburg who consented to participation, filled out a survey assessing outdoor activity participation and levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and self-efficacy. They then reported for in person assessment of physical health measures including resting heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate as well as height, weight, body mass index, basal metabolic rate, and body fat percentage and distribution. The present study found that basal metabolic rate and anxiety each have a significant correlation to frequency (daily, weekly, or monthly) of outdoor activity participation. Daily participants displayed higher BMR values, on average, than those who indicated weekly participation, meaning that daily outdoor activity participants are burning more calories per day at rest than weekly participants. Daily participation was associated with lower levels of anxiety than monthly participation. The results of this study could be used to guide further research on these topics and to educate people on their options when it comes to treating or improving their physical and mental health. Increasing outdoor activity participation could serve as a possible first step in management of these areas of health.

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