A study published in the journal Journal of Affective Disorders has found that Nordic walking can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and may produce therapeutic benefits relatively quickly.

Nordic walking is a form of aerobic exercise that uses specially designed poles, engaging up to 90% of the body's muscles. Originally developed in Finland as an off-season training method for cross-country skiers, it has since become a popular form of physical activity in its own right.

The researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 64 adults with moderate to severe depression. Participants, who had not previously engaged in regular exercise, were divided into two groups: 48 individuals took part in a Nordic walking program, while 16 served as a control group and did not perform structured physical activity.

The intervention lasted 10 weeks and consisted of two one-hour sessions per week led by trained instructors. Exercise intensity was monitored using heart-rate monitors to maintain a moderate aerobic workload. Depression severity was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory-II before the program began, midway through the intervention, and at the end of the study.

The results showed a substantial reduction in depressive symptoms among participants in the Nordic walking group compared with those in the control group. The most noticeable improvements occurred during the first five weeks, with participants suffering from severe depression experiencing the fastest progress.

By the end of the 10-week program, between 35% and 53.6% of participants had achieved remission, meaning their symptoms had fallen below the clinical threshold for depression. Importantly, no injuries or serious adverse effects were reported during the study.

The authors emphasize that physical activity—particularly aerobic exercise—can serve as an effective, accessible complement to conventional depression treatments, including medication and psychotherapy.

The findings also suggest that the benefits of exercise may emerge more rapidly than current clinical guidelines generally assume.

The researchers propose that similar exercise programs should be considered as part of public health strategies and supported through municipal and national mental health initiatives.