Into the wild: a multi-source qualitative study on motivations, barriers, and social well-being in nature-based physical activity

Nature-based physical activity (NBPA) is increasingly recognized for promoting connectedness to nature and supporting mental and physical health, yet existing research is limited by conceptual ambiguity and fragmented analyses of motivations, barriers, and outcomes. This study clarifies the conceptual scope of NBPA and examines the relationships among participation motivations, barriers, and social well-being. We propose a four-domain classification of NBPA (water-, land-, air-, and ice/snow-based) and employ a multi-source qualitative research design, integrating semi-structured interviews and social media posts through an iterative thematic analysis. Results identify a four-dimensional barrier structure (structural, intrapersonal, social, and practical constraints) and extend outcome assessment to social well-being by distinguishing individual and collective well-being. Finally, drawing on Nature Connectedness Theory and Attention Restoration Theory, we develop a dynamic process model explaining why people participate, what constrains participation, and how sustained social well-being emerges through NBPA.