Motivations for green exercise among active adolescents: an analysis with PALMS and MNQ in the Italian context

BACKGROUND: Few tools assess motivation for nature-based physical activity (PA), with the PA and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) and the Motivations for Nature-Connectedness Questionnaire (MNQ) addressing this gap. This study validated these tools in Italian and explored adolescents’ motivations for green exercise.METHODS: A cross-sectional validation study was conducted as part of the “IFormaMentis” project with Italian adolescents. The sample included students who engaged in vigorous/moderate PA twice a week. Motivational differences were analyzed between those practicing outdoor activities frequently (ASO) and those doing so less than twice a week (ASIO).RESULTS: PALMS-IT (α=0.980) and MNQ-IT (α=0.815) showed strong reliability. The study included 760 students, 88% of whom were active twice a week. A significant gender difference was found, with males being more active and more likely to participate in outdoor activities. The ASIO group showed greater motivation for appearance, physical condition, mastery, and enjoyment compared to ASO+ASIO. In contrast, ASO+ASIO participants showed higher motivation related to psychological condition.CONCLUSIONS: PALMS-IT and MNQ-IT effectively assess motivations for outdoor PA. Psychological condition, enjoyment, and mastery play key roles in sustaining PA, emphasizing the importance of emotional factors. The study also highlights a lasting impact of pandemic restrictions on adolescents’ PA choices. These findings offer policymakers and educators new avenues for promoting green activity among adolescents.