Nature-Based Exercise
Active-ByNature.org is an open education program for nature-based exercise by MAVERICKS Academy. We create accessible online learning experiences and resources for outdoor activities, wellbeing, and environmental engagement.
What is Nature-Based Exercise?
Nature-Based Exercise (NBE) brings together a number of outdoor practices and activities which keep people active. Health and nature research increasingly recognises nature-based activities to contribute towards helping people be:
- More physically active
- Engaged with nature
- Socially connected
- Engaged in environmental improvement
With Active By Nature, we provide free educational resources and courses to help more people and activities engage more with nature for physical and mental benefits.
Free MOOC Course
Our introductory MOOC (Massive Open Online Learning) course, ABN_101 teaches the foundations of nature-based science for health and wellbeing. It is a free eLearning course open to the public (2 hours).
The course explores how being active in nature can enhance motivation to move, strengthen group dynamics, and deepen the connection to the natural environment. It is designed for individuals and organisations who want to integrate these ideas into their existing activities in a simple and practical way.
What are the BENEFITS of Nature-Based Exercise?
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MIND & BODY
Modern living and forceful training can lead to pain and limited mobility by reinforcing restrictive, unnatural movement patterns. Nature-Based Training prioritises neuro-myofascial training and experiential learning, helping the body's natural interactions with the natural environment and intuitive movement.
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WELLBEING
Contact with nature helps increase exercise rates, promote an active lifestyle and restore physical and cognitive stress, resulting in enhanced wellbeing. Nature-Based training focuses on the individual experience, helping to foster sustainable wellbeing and positive body image through a nature-based active lifestyle approach.
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NATURE CONNECTION
Reconnecting to nature has a number of benefits, including developing more affinity and appreciation for the environment, and feeling more physically and mentally connected to the world around us. Exposure to biodiverse environments also helps to promote health, and relieve daily stressors to our mind and body.
