Exploring how walking in green spaces affects adults with prediabetes

Effects of Walking in Greenspace and the Built Environment in Adults with Prediabetes: A Randomized Crossover Trial

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10870116

This study is looking at how walking in parks and natural areas compared to city streets affects the health of adults with prediabetes, focusing on things like blood sugar levels, stress, and overall well-being, to help find better ways to prevent prediabetes from getting worse.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10870116 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of walking in natural environments, known as greenspaces, on adults with prediabetes. Participants will engage in a randomized crossover trial, where they will alternate between walking in greenspaces and urban built environments. The study aims to assess various health outcomes, including blood glucose control, stress levels, and overall well-being, by measuring physiological responses and psychological effects. By understanding how different environments influence health, the research seeks to provide insights into effective strategies for preventing the progression of prediabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with prediabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have prediabetes or those with severe mobility limitations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for individuals with prediabetes by promoting walking in greenspaces as a beneficial lifestyle change.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the health benefits of greenspace exposure, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.