RESEARCH

Gardening Tasks Performed by Adults are Moderate- to High-Intensity Physical Activities

This study evaluates the exercise intensity of various gardening tasks, confirming that gardening activities range from moderate to high-intensity physical exercise, supporting their role in health promotion.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: Students
Setting or Context: Community Gardens
Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Physical Health
Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening
Evidence Type: Case Studies, Quantitative Research
Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Physical Health
Access: Free
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Summary

The research measured oxygen uptake, heart rate, and metabolic equivalents (METs) of 10 common gardening tasks among 15 university students. Results showed that gardening activities such as digging (6.3 METs), raking (5.4 METs), and weeding (5.0 METs) were moderate to high-intensity exercises, comparable to other forms of physical activity. Lower-intensity tasks, such as watering (3.9 METs) and planting (3.5 METs), still contributed to cardiovascular and muscular engagement.

The findings suggest that gardening can be an effective way to meet recommended physical activity levels, particularly for those seeking low-cost, accessible, and enjoyable alternatives to traditional exercise. The study highlights gardening’s potential benefits for health, fitness, and rehabilitation programs, advocating for its integration into physical activity guidelines and therapeutic interventions

Link

Park, S.A., Lee, A.Y., Lee, K.S., & Son, K.C. (2014). Gardening tasks performed by adults are moderateto high-intensity physical activities. HortTechnology, 24(1), 58–63.

 

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