Health and wellbeing in an outdoor and adventure sports context

Abstract

While the world responds to the latest health issue, it is perhaps timely that we think broadly about human and planetary health and wellbeing. Across the globe, there is a call for a different future, one that prioritises wellbeing. Even before the COVID-19 crisis, governments such as those in Bhutan, Wales and New Zealand had recognised the importance of wellbeing and working within natural systems. Ultimately, human beings are a part of nature, and our health and wellbeing depend on the health and wellbeing of our planet’s ecosystems. This book explores how an important emerging sector, adventure and outdoor sports, plays a part in providing for the health and wellbeing of people in relation to the natural world. From a human perspective, health involves more than managing disease: it includes the potential for optimum wellbeing and flourishing. Globally, there are still challenges that require focused attention. For example, in 2010, mental illness and substance abuse combined were the leading cause of non-fatal illness worldwide, and the fifth-biggest cause of death and disease. In September 2015, the United Nations recognised mental health and wellbeing as priorities within the global development agenda. The natural environment has been presented as an important aspect of the global health improvement plan. The last two decades have witnessed a plethora of research from a vast array of fields—including public health, ecology, geography, forestry, psychology, education, sport science and psychiatry—suggesting that physical activity in nature and a feeling of being part of nature enhance health and wellbeing. The relationship between being in nature and good health and wellbeing is recognised anecdotally, and research evidence on outcomes is growing. However, theoretical approaches that can support the interpretation of findings and the design of interventions and experiences are still developing. Research is beginning to consider the importance of individual differences, such as in feelings of connection to nature and the person–environment relationship. Outdoor and adventure sports and activities (from forest schools to extreme sports and more) are, potentially, ideal examples of physical activity in nature, and are perhaps best placed to reconnect people to the natural world. For this manuscript, we adopted a broad definition of sport, including the dimensions of self-development and recreation. Specifically, sports are considered to be multi-faceted, boundary-crossing activities, which do not necessarily involve structured competitive activity, regulated performance environments, rules or institutions. This manuscript brings together cutting-edge research and thought on the role of outdoor and adventure activities in enhancing mental health and psychological wellbeing. We are very grateful for the foresight of Mark Robinson and Carnegie Great Outdoors for their support in ensuring the publication of this collection.