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 findings, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, showed that heart rate–raising aerobic exercise had the strongest effect on depression. Resistance training and yoga also helped, though to a lesser degree. Group and supervised activities produced additional benefits, suggesting social interaction enhances the mental health impact.
World Health Organization estimates that hundreds of millions globally live with depression or anxiety. Researchers say short, low-intensity programmes may work well for anxiety symptoms. However, experts from King’s College London and University College London cautioned that exercise should complement, not replace, therapy or medication, particularly in moderate to severe cases.
