Walking in Nature vs. City Streets for Prediabetes

This trial tests whether walking in nature (parks, greenspace) has different health benefits compared to walking in built-up urban areas (streets, commercial zones) for adults with prediabetes — a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet diabetic. Researchers want to see if time spent in nature while exercising helps reduce stress, improve heart health markers, and prevent progression to type 2 diabetes better than the same amount of walking in city environments.

Nearly 38% of American adults have prediabetes and are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. While we know that exercise helps prevent diabetes, researchers want to understand if where you exercise matters — specifically, whether the natural environment adds extra health benefits beyond just the physical activity itself.