Aerobic exercise such as running, swimming or dancing can act as a frontline treatment for mild depression and anxiety, researchers say. A large review found the strongest benefits in young adults and new mothers, two groups at higher risk of mental health problems.
Scientists analysed 63 reviews covering nearly 80,000 people and published the findings in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Activities that raised the heart rate showed the greatest impact on depression, while resistance training and yoga delivered smaller effects. Group or supervised exercise provided extra benefits, suggesting social connection plays a key role.
World Health Organization estimates that hundreds of millions of people worldwide live with depression or anxiety. Experts say exercise can match or even exceed traditional treatments for mild symptoms. However, researchers from King’s College London and University College London caution that exercise should complement, not replace, therapy or medication for people with more severe conditions.
