Among its many documented psychological benefits, an increasing body of research suggests that gardening is also a good form of low to moderate exercise with many physical and mental benefits, especially as one ages.

Numerous studies conducted from the mid-1980s to the 1990s through to the present day have repeatedly confirmed the benefits of light to moderate exercise among older adults.

One 2011 study, conducted by a team from two South Korean universities, namely Hongik University and Konkuk University, summarises the findings of prior studies thus: "The health benefits of physical activities in older adults are significant and have been reported to prevent or reduce chronic diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, ischemic stroke, cancers, anxiety, and depression. Physical activity also contributes to the ability of older adults to live independently by increasing or maintaining their fitness level, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, balance, and bone minerals."

The abovementioned study, titled Determining Exercise Intensities of Gardening Tasks as a Physical Activity Using Metabolic Equivalents in Older Adults, sought to determine the exercise intensities of 15 gardening tasks in older adults by using a measure known as 'metabolic equivalents' (METs). This is basically a way to measure...