Aerobic exercise such as running, swimming or dancing can serve as a frontline treatment for mild depression and anxiety, researchers say. A large analysis of 63 reviews covering nearly 80,000 people found that physical activity significantly reduced symptoms, especially in young adults and new mothers.
The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, showed that heart-rate-raising aerobic exercise had the strongest impact on depression. Resistance training and yoga also helped, though to a lesser degree. Group or supervised activities produced greater benefits, suggesting that social interaction enhances the mental health effects.
Neil Munro of James Cook University said exercise can match or even exceed traditional treatments in mild cases. However, experts urged caution. Brendon Stubbs of King’s College London said exercise should complement, not replace, therapy or medication, particularly for severe depression. Michael Bloomfield of UCL added that energetic group exercise may be unrealistic for those with serious symptoms.
Researchers stress that while exercise offers clear benefits, it works best as part of a broader, evidence-based treatment plan.
