The research published in the Cochrane Library, Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews revealed that when it comes to depression, regular exercise gives similar outcomes to psychological therapy.

Professor Andrew Clegg said, “Our findings suggest that exercise appears to be a safe and accessible option for helping to manage symptoms of depression.”

The study involved 5000 adults suffering from depression and examined 73 different trials. In the research, it was observed how exercise influences people involved in no treatment, controlled interventions, antidepressants, and psychological therapies.

The research showed moderate benefits with controlled intervention or no treatment. But showed a similar influence to psychological therapy in 10 trials. Also shows low certainty with antidepressants. 

Founder of Embracing You Therapy, Menije Boduryan-Turner, said, “This review can provide encouragement on the benefits of additional tools, such as exercise, in managing depression.”

Another research from Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews revealed that a person engaged in high physical activity can have 17% lower risk of depression.

On the other hand, people have 64% higher chances of depression who engage less in cardiorespiratory fitness. This supported the stance that having a sedentary lifestyle is a key reason behind depression.

An article reviewed by Physical Activity and Nutrition revealed that constantly indulging in physical activities assists in the management of depression.

Regular exercise regulates circadian rhythms, reduces inflammation, and improves sleep patterns. All these things ultimately improve energy levels and mood and decrease depression symptoms in humans.  

Now, the question is what other options are there to treat depression? 

Other treatment options for depression

Menije Boduryan-Turner told Healthline, “I believe that a combination of therapy, medication, and other methods, such as meditation and exercise, would lead to a more wholesome treatment plan.”

Make sure to incorporate movements and exercises that align with one’s interests and likes. Psychologist Rod Mitchell suggested first including therapy to build a positive start to exercise. He also said that one can include activities such as dancing, yoga, walking, and gardening.

As per the National Institute of Mental Health, incorporating 30 minutes of jogging and walking into one's daily routine can significantly boost one’s mood. Physical activity stimulates endorphins, which help improve mood and reduce depression. So, to have a depression free life, one must include exercise daily. 

How often do you indulge in exercising? Tell us in the comments section.

Written by

Supradeep Dutta

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu