earticle

영어

Middle-aged women are at a stage where immune function tends to decline, making it essential to develop programs that strengthen the immune system and maintain health. While forest environments have become an effective exercise venue for modern health management, studies on the effects of exercise in forest environments on improving immune function have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, this study analyzed the effects of forest walking exercise on immune function in middle-aged women. Seven middle-aged women participated in a 10-week forest walking exercise program, conducted twice a week, followed by blood analysis. The exercise intensity was progressively increased based on the Borg Scale of Perceived Exertion. Blood analysis was performed using indicators to evaluate immune cell activity, and the results were as follows: A significant improvement was observed in NK cell activity, while no significant changes were found in T-cells, B-cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, or basophils. These findings suggest that exercise in forest environments has a greater impact on innate immune cells, such as NK cells. It is also believed that physical activity conducted in a forest environment may have contributed to the enhancement of NK cell activity. Future studies should focus on long-term research and program development considering various aspects of the immune system.