No abstract

Leisure walking provides an escape from routines and daily lives, and offers positive experiences, such as fascination with nature, reflection, and mental relaxation. the processes of exploring and observing nature while walking build bonds between people and spaces. In walking, people explore personal capabilities and overcome challenges associated with demanding landscapes, which enhances feelings of satisfaction and achievement. Furthermore, sharing spaces and similar positive experiences with others while walking promote social interactions and a sense of belonging that combats feelings of loneliness and benefits well-being. Ample research on physical activity, including walking, has explored the role of psychological, social, and environmental factors in the activity participation, and recognised its benefits for mental health and well-being. this paper reviews literature in the field of leisure and environmental psychology to present the evidence of the positive relationships between leisure walking in the natural environment and its psychological and social benefits for well-being.

The increasing academic interest in walking for heath has paid limited attention to Nordic walking. This paper investigates the growing popularity of Nordic walking as a leisure activity in the United Kingdom and its contribution to well-being. It investigates the similarities and differences in leisure experiences between Nordic walking and rambling. Twelve Nordic walkers and thirteen Ramblers partook in semi-structured interviews at various locations in the United Kingdom. The interviews were analysed thematically. Using Seligman's PERMA model and Stebbins' concept of serious leisure, it was found that leisure experiences in rambling related to well-being by creating a strong emotional bond between the members and the natural environments, developing and maintaining friendships, and facilitating mobility and vitality. In contrast the leisure experience of Nordic walking involved developing physical activity skills and fitness, encouraging leadership, and promoting positive emotions through the participation in the activity. The contribution of this research lies in addressing this significant gap in knowledge by diversifying the concept of leisure walking and identifying the potential social and environmental influences in the leisure walking activities that contribute to well-being.

There is accumulating evidence that walking has health benefits. While millions of people in the United Kingdom have long benefitted from rambling, Nordic walking is a relative newcomer to the shores of Britain. Which of these forms of walking is better for your mental wellbeing? This study set out to compare both forms of walking and measured their effects on mental wellbeing using the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), through an online survey. In addition both groups of walkers were asked about socio-environmental influences on their walking. Some 508 participants completed the online survey, which assessed socio-environmental factors on participation in both walking activities and mental well-being. This study showed both walking groups had higher mental well-being scores than the "normal population" for the WEMWBS. However, there were no significant differences in contribution to mental well-being between the two walking groups. Socio-environmental analysis revealed that in Nordic walking the role of the instructor was critical, whereas in rambling friends' support, weather conditions and the aesthetics of the environment were important factors for participation. This study diversified the concept of leisure walking by distinguishing between rambling and Nordic walking in terms of their differing contributions towards mental well-being.

Purpose. the health benefits of Nordic walking have been widely examined in previous studies. However, the social benefits of the activity are still unknown. the aim of this study is to explore various social aspects of Nordic walking from the instructors' perspective related to the activity participation. Methods. Overall, 14 Nordic walking instructors contacted electronically via the International Nordic Walking Federation instructor database completed open-ended questionnaires. the open-ended questionnaire consisted of 17 questions, grouped in sections (socio-demographic characteristics, career background, motives for becoming a Nordic walking instructor, characteristics of Nordic walking groups, means of promoting Nordic walking in local communities, group dynamics, and perceived barriers to participation). the data were content-analysed by using qualitative-data-management software MAXQDA 10. Results. Participation in Nordic walking focused on building and maintaining strong social relationships between practitioners and instructors, which offered social and emotional support within the groups. the study identified environmental and psychological barriers to Nordic walking. Environmental barriers were associated with the weather and seasonal conditions, and the diversity of built and natural environments. Psychological barriers to Nordic walking referred to a negative image of walking with poles. Conclusions. Nordic walking was suitable for people who searched for an opportunity to exercise with the intention for socialising and improving health.