Affect in Motion: Exploring Moderate Intensity Stepping Cadence in Different Environments

The purpose of this study was to examine how walking in different environments influences perceptual, affective, and psychosocial responses among physically inactive adults (<150 minutes/week). Participants completed a 10-minute moderate-intensity walk across three conditions – treadmill, campus, and garden. Measures included affective responses using the Feelings Scale and Felt Arousal Scale, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), exercise enjoyment, and psychosocial constructs related to physical activity. Results indicated generally positive affective responses to walking conditions. Significant differences were observed in arousal and perceived exertion, with higher values during the garden condition compared to the treadmill condition. Recalled enjoyment did not significantly differ across environments, although descriptive scores suggested slightly greater enjoyment in outdoor settings. Minor improvements were observed in select psychosocial variables following study participation. These findings suggest natural environments may provide a more stimulating activity experience and may inform future intervention strategies that support positive physical activity experiences across diverse populations.