Nature Gyms & the Green Gym Concept

Have you ever noticed that sense of calm that washes over you when sitting on a beach watching the waves roll in, or relaxing under a tree deep in a forest while breathing in those positive phytoncides in the air? Green gyms, which combine physical activity with environmental conservation, also provide this sense of calm and mental wellbeing.

Green gym sessions and the Green Gym Group are excellent examples of nature-inspired exercise initiatives that promote physical health and environmental sustainability.

Nature has a powerful impact on our mood and mental wellbeing, a fundamental concept behind the approach of biophilic design which integrates nature into the built environment for similar functional health benefits. The fresh air experienced during these activities further enhances mood and overall well-being.

How? By combining healthy, nature-inspired and sustainable design principles into one.

What is biophilic design doing in a gym or spa for physical activity?

The objective of using biophilia in an indoor gym or spa is to offer a powerful connection to nature through an abundance of plants, natural toxin-free materials in lieu of nasty synthetics; organic shapes with a wabi-sabi (imperfectly beautiful) finish and a soothing palette of beiges, greens and browns. We have covered the benefits of training outdoors here and we remain devoted believers in spending time outdoors whenever possible!

Taken together though, all of these design techniques can create an indoor environment with remnants of the great outdoors even in a dense urban context where access to nature may be inherently limited. Incorporating practical activities such as planting trees and establishing wildlife ponds into biophilic gym designs can further enhance this connection. Layer in a spa treatment or natural fitness workout on top though and the health benefits start to become truly compelling, as these practical activities promote physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and a sense of community.

Health Benefits of Biophilia for Mental Wellbeing

In 2017, Biofit commissioned the first scientific study into what is termed as “indoor green exercise”. Conducted by the UKActive Research Institute and University of Essex Green Exercise Group, it ran over four weeks at the Biofit pop-up gym in London with a total of 118 participants taking a natural fitness session.

The study also measured the cortisol awakening response, showing significant improvements through nature-based activities, which correlated with enhanced well-being and reduced anxiety among participants.

Each responded to a ‘before and after’ questionnaire, with the following results:

• 75% felt less stressed after their session

• 80% reported feeling more connected to nature

• 87% found an improvement in positive mood state

• An average enjoyment level of 91/100

By changing how a gym or indeed spa looks and feels, and incorporating physical activity, we can thus increase client satisfaction and boost overall enjoyment whilst ensuring happier, healthier members who feel connected to nature.

Why Use a Biophilic Design in Green Gyms?

Biophilic design and green exercise is a suitable eco-friendly solution for gyms of 25sq. metres up to 1000sq. metres. While smaller spaces are ideal for focused, small group and personal training, larger facilities can offer an array of training equipment, outdoor obstacles and a variety of zones to cover strength, cardio, movement and mobility. This approach not only enhances the gym experience but also positively impacts the local area and local environment through sustainable practices.

Conservation projects, such as Green Gyms, and the involvement of conservation volunteers can further enhance gym spaces by integrating physical activities like planting trees and establishing wildlife ponds, which benefit both mental wellbeing and community engagement.

To discuss how Biofit could help you design and equip your gym, be it a commercial business, home gym, hotel gym or office gym, simply email us on info @ biofit . io. The social benefits of biophilic gym design include improved mental wellbeing through contact with nature, fostering community connections, and encouraging individuals to contribute positively to their surroundings.