Ask the average person why they enjoy living in the Westcountry and it is more than likely being near the beach would feature high on their list of reasons.
And now a study carried out in Truro, by the University of Exeter, is aiming to determine what fact there is behind the theory.
Following previous research which has shown the natural environment can offer a number of benefits to wellbeing, the study is aiming to see what effect so called "blue" environments can have on physical and mental health.
Using an exercise bike and videos of Cornish beaches, researchers will be asking participants to "cycle through" coastal scenes while monitoring their heart rate, blood pressure and mood in controlled laboratory conditions.
Abi Scott, the research coordinator running the study for the university medical school's European Centre for Environment and Human Health, believes it will shed light on the most beneficial ways for individuals to use the environment around them.
She said: "We've all experienced the joy of the outdoors, whether through relaxing on the beach, walking the coast path or riding a bike; we take to the outdoors in a variety of ways and for many reasons.
"We want to know how coastal environments affect us mentally and physically, so we can make the most of any benefits that exist."
Several studies previously carried out at the centre have pointed towards the positive impact the natural environment, and particularly the coast, can have upon people's health.
One such study revealed that people living near the coast tend to have better health than those living inland.
Other research has shown the coastal environment may not only offer better opportunities for its inhabitants to be active, but also provide significant benefits in terms of stress reduction.
Ms Scott said she was keen for her findings to feed into the way the environment might be harnessed to improve our health and wellbeing: "Previous research has shown that people find time passes faster when they're by the sea, and that their mood is more positive," she said. "We're hoping this research will allow us to understand more about the benefits of exercising in natural environments, and help to develop ways of encouraging people to make use of their nearby natural environments – ultimately increasing their physical activity levels." The study is taking place throughout the summer and autumn and will initially focus on young adults aged between 18 and 24.
For more information email Abi Scott at a.k.scott@exeter.ac.uk
