International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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3 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing

by Arnulf Josef Hartl, Johanna Freidl and Daniela Huber

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(12), 6144; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20126144 - 16 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1624

Abstract

As humanity becomes progressively urban, a huge number of people could lose the opportunity to benefit from or develop an appreciation for nature [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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12 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expectations Regarding Gastein Healing Gallery Treatment and Their Connection to Health-Related Quality of Life

by Loren Toussaint, Kien Huynh, Niko Kohls, Fuschia Sirois, Hannah Alberts, Jameson Hirsch, Christian Hanshans, Quang Anh Nguyen, Antje van der Zee-Neuen and Martin Offenbaecher

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075426 - 6 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2352

Abstract

The present study examines connections between patient expectations and health-related quality of life. We explore a key distinction between expectations about general health and expectations for functional improvement. Patients were 1444 individuals with multiple conditions experiencing chronic pain who were seeking treatment at [...] Read more.

The present study examines connections between patient expectations and health-related quality of life. We explore a key distinction between expectations about general health and expectations for functional improvement. Patients were 1444 individuals with multiple conditions experiencing chronic pain who were seeking treatment at the Gastein Healing Gallery in Böckstein, near Bad Gastein, Austria. In addition to measures of expectations, patients completed measures of pain, mental and physical health, life satisfaction, fatigue, and sleep problems. Structural equation models were used to fit a latent variable model where both expectation variables were used to predict health-related quality of life. Results showed that expectations regarding potential functional improvement resulting from treatments at the Gastein Healing Gallery were associated with improved health-related quality of life. Expectations about general health improvements related to treatment were not associated with health-related quality of life. To facilitate optimal healing, clinicians may decide to emphasize expectations about functional recovery when discussing treatment methods similar to those offered at the Gastein Healing Gallery, and in so doing, health-related quality of life may benefit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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12 pages, 987 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Exercise Intensity for Uphill Walking in Healthy Adults Performed Indoors and Outdoors

by Laura Eisenberger, Barbara Mayr, Maximilian Beck, Verena Venek, Christina Kranzinger, Andrea Menzl, Inga Jahn, Mahdi Sareban, Renate Oberhoffer-Fritz, Josef Niebauer and Birgit Böhm

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416662 - 12 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3220

Abstract

Background: Borg’s rating of perceived exertion (BRPE) scale is a simple, but subjective tool to grade physical strain during exercise. As a result, it is widely used for the prescription of exercise intensity, especially for cardiovascular disease prevention. The purpose of this study [...] Read more.

Background: Borg’s rating of perceived exertion (BRPE) scale is a simple, but subjective tool to grade physical strain during exercise. As a result, it is widely used for the prescription of exercise intensity, especially for cardiovascular disease prevention. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare relationships between BRPE and physiological measures of exercise intensity during uphill walking indoors and outdoors. Methods: 134 healthy participants [median age: 56 years (IQR 52–63)] completed a maximal graded walking test indoors on a treadmill using the modified Bruce protocol, and a submaximal 1 km outdoor uphill cardio-trekking test (1 km CTT). Heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (V̇O₂) were continuously measured throughout both tests. BRPE was simultaneously assessed at the end of each increment on the treadmill, while the maximal BRPE value was noted at the end of the 1 km CTT. Results: On the treadmill, BRPE correlated very high with relative HR (%HR_max) (ρ = 0.88, p < 0.001) and V̇O₂ (%V̇O_2max) (ρ = 0.89, p < 0.001). During the 1 km CTT, a small correlation between BRPE and %HR_max (ρ = 0.24, p < 0.05), respectively %V̇O_2max was found (ρ = 0.24, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Criterion validity of BRPE during uphill walking depends on the environment and is higher during a treadmill test compared to a natural environment. Adding sensor-based, objective exercise-intensity parameters such as HR holds promise to improve intensity prescription and health safety during uphill walking in a natural environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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19 pages, 1222 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Sustainability of Hiking in Combination with Coaching in Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Quality of Life

by Daniela Huber, Michaela Mayr, Arnulf Hartl, Sandra Sittenthaler, Eva Traut-Mattausch, Renate Weisböck-Erdheim and Johanna Freidl

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 3848; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19073848 - 24 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3617

Abstract

Although strong evidence shows that physical inactivity and sedentary behavior are associated with many negative health outcomes, inactive lifestyles are still increasing. Consequently, new approaches must be developed to increase adherence to an active lifestyle and hence a longer life. Green exercise and [...] Read more.

Although strong evidence shows that physical inactivity and sedentary behavior are associated with many negative health outcomes, inactive lifestyles are still increasing. Consequently, new approaches must be developed to increase adherence to an active lifestyle and hence a longer life. Green exercise and health coaching could be effective ways to induce long-lasting lifestyle changes geared towards more physical activity. In this randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of mountain hiking and psychological coaching on adults with a sedentary lifestyle. The coaching group (n = 26) participated in a 7-day guided hiking program with three personal coaching sessions, whereas the hiking group (n = 32) received no coaching. The effects on aerobic capacity, spirometry and quality of life were assessed at baseline (day 0), after the intervention week (day 7) and after 80 days. Fully nonparametric statistical analysis revealed a gender-based effect for aerobic capacity—the female participants of the coaching group showed a greater improvement (p = 0.03) than the hiking group. No significant effects were found for spirometry. Quality of life parameters improved in both groups. In conclusion, both green exercise and health coaching are capable of inducing improvements in health-related quality of life and cardiorespiratory fitness. No superior effects of health coaching were found. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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18 pages, 641 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geography Matters, But… Evolving Success Factors for Nature-Oriented Health Tourism within Selected Alpine Destinations

by Jürgen Schmude, Markus Pillmayer, Maximilian Witting and Philipp Corradini

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5389; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105389 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3905

Abstract

This paper analyzes the success factors of health tourism based on natural attractions in selected European spa and health destinations. The natural resources included in the offers, such as water, salt, and air, play a central role in this context, as their evidence-based [...] Read more.

This paper analyzes the success factors of health tourism based on natural attractions in selected European spa and health destinations. The natural resources included in the offers, such as water, salt, and air, play a central role in this context, as their evidence-based effects have a high relevance for the health and wellbeing of tourists. Due to its specific geographical location and considering the threat of climate change, however, this offer is facing increasing challenges which make adaptation strategies necessary. In addition to a conceptional introduction to the topic, this paper contains a descriptive analysis of tourism statistics and the results from self-administered questionnaires with six selected representatives from alpine health destinations (DE, FR, IT, AT, CH, SI). The results show varying forms of health tourism based on natural attractions, which are also reflected in online marketing, with potential for optimization. The web research and the responses to the questionnaire revealed that evidence-based studies hardly play a role in promoting health touristic offers. Furthermore, climate change effects on natural attractions are considered extremely small and tend to prompt the development of new offers. Health destinations are advised to generate a clearer focus on the risks of climate change regarding natural resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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12 pages, 652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Promotion as a Motivational Factor in Alpine Cycling

by Marco Haid, Elisabeth Nöhammer, Julia N. Albrecht, Alexander Plaikner, Harald Stummer and Peter Heimerl

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2321; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052321 - 26 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2769

Abstract

The present study examines motives for cycling in the alpine region and focuses on the relative importance of health promotion with respect to other motives. Furthermore, the influences of person-specific characteristics on the rank of the motives are examined, and possibilities for advertising [...] Read more.

The present study examines motives for cycling in the alpine region and focuses on the relative importance of health promotion with respect to other motives. Furthermore, the influences of person-specific characteristics on the rank of the motives are examined, and possibilities for advertising bike tourism based on these motives and characteristics are derived. By applying a quantitative approach, a total of 175 cyclists were surveyed using questionnaires on person-specific characteristics, motives, and their relevance for alpine cycling. Data analysis revealed that health promotion is the most important motive for alpine cycling after fun and action as well as nature experience. Further health-related motives such as stress reduction are also perceived as important. The social component, on the other hand, was given the least priority. The results also showed that person-specific characteristics influence the relative importance of motives. For example, elderly persons and people with children perceive the motive of health promotion as the most important. The study shows that the health-promoting effect of alpine cycling is noticed and may be further encouraged. This study demonstrates that alpine cyclists are a heterogeneous group and that health benefits are perceived by various sub-groups therein. Therefore, any marketing for alpine cycling needs to reflect the diversity of cyclists, and approaches need to be adapted according to the respective target group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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7 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sudden Cardiac Death Risk in Downhill Skiers and Mountain Hikers and Specific Prevention Strategies

by Josef Niebauer and Martin Burtscher

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1621; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041621 - 8 Feb 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3154

Abstract

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) still represents an unanticipated and catastrophic event eliciting from cardiac causes. SCD is the leading cause of non-traumatic deaths during downhill skiing and mountain hiking, related to the fact that these sports are very popular among elderly people. Annually, [...] Read more.

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) still represents an unanticipated and catastrophic event eliciting from cardiac causes. SCD is the leading cause of non-traumatic deaths during downhill skiing and mountain hiking, related to the fact that these sports are very popular among elderly people. Annually, more than 40 million downhill skiers and mountain hikers/climbers visit mountainous regions of the Alps, including an increasing number of individuals with pre-existing chronic diseases. Data sets from two previously published case-control studies have been used to draw comparisons between the SCD risk of skiers and hikers. Data of interest included demographic variables, cardiovascular risk factors, medical history, physical activity, and additional symptoms and circumstances of sudden death for cases. To establish a potential connection between the SCD risk and sport-specific physical strain, data on cardiorespiratory responses to downhill skiing and mountain hiking, assessed in middle-aged men and women, have been included. It was demonstrated that previous myocardial infarction (MI) (odds ratio; 95% CI: 92.8; 22.8–379.1; p < 0.001) and systemic hypertension (9.0; 4.0–20.6; p < 0.001) were predominant risk factors for SCD in skiers, but previous MI (10.9; 3.8–30.9; p < 0.001) and metabolic disorders like hypercholesterolemia (3.4; 2.2–5.2; p < 0.001) and diabetes (7.4; 1.6–34.3; p < 0.001) in hikers. More weekly high-intensity exercise was protective in skiers (0.17; 0.04–0.74; p = 0.02), while larger amounts of mountain sports activities per year were protective in hikers (0.23; 0.1–0.4; <0.001). In conclusion, previous MI history represents the most important risk factor for SCD in recreational skiers and hikers as well, and adaptation to high-intensity exercise is especially important to prevent SCD in skiers. Moreover, the presented differences in risk factor patterns for SCDs and discussed requirements for physical fitness in skiers and hikers will help physicians to provide specifically targeted advice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

10 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological Variables Related to Developmental Changes during Adolescence—A Comparison between Alpine and Non-Alpine Sport Participants

by Martin Niedermeier, Claudia Kogler, Anika Frühauf and Martin Kopp

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 7879; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17217879 - 27 Oct 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2239

Abstract

Alpine sport is a popular form of exercise and provides several skills that are potentially relevant for positive development during adolescence. However, empirical data on differences between alpine and non-alpine sport participants in variables related to developmental changes are lacking. Therefore, the primary [...] Read more.

Alpine sport is a popular form of exercise and provides several skills that are potentially relevant for positive development during adolescence. However, empirical data on differences between alpine and non-alpine sport participants in variables related to developmental changes are lacking. Therefore, the primary aim of the present study was to analyze differences in self-esteem and additional variables between adolescent alpine and non-alpine sport participants. A comparison to non-regular exercisers was conducted for self-esteem. In a cross-sectional design, information on self-esteem, sensation seeking, agency, and emotion regulation was collected in 183 adolescents [(mean age: 15.4 (SD: 2.3) years, 71.0% female)]. Alpine sport participants reported significantly higher self-esteem compared to non-regular exercisers, p = 0.003, d = 0.95, but not compared to non-alpine sport participants, p = 0.774, d = 0.06. When controlling for sex and high-risk sport engagement, alpine sport participants showed a significantly higher experience of agency compared to non-alpine sport participants, p = 0.016, d = 0.46. We conclude that alpine sport participation is less relevant with regard to self-esteem compared to regular exercise. However, the characteristics of alpine sport might provide a trigger for higher experience of agency during sport participation, potentially helping to satisfy the increased need for autonomy and independence in adolescence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Alpine Natural Health Resources on Human Health and Wellbeing)

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