Australian researchers have found that aerobic activities — such as running, swimming, and dancing — have the strongest effect in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. According to the analysis, regular exercise is comparable in effectiveness, and in some cases may even outperform medication and psychotherapy. The study was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM).
The review included dozens of meta-analyses covering hundreds of clinical trials and tens of thousands of participants, ranging from adolescents to older adults. Physical activity was compared with no intervention, placebo, or alternative activities. Researchers evaluated aerobic and strength training, yoga, and combined exercise programs.
The results showed that physical exercise produces a moderate positive effect on depression and a small to moderate effect on anxiety. The most pronounced improvements were observed among young adults aged 18–30 and among postpartum women.
For depression, the best outcomes were associated with group sessions and workouts conducted under instructor supervision. To reduce anxiety, shorter programs lasting up to eight weeks and performed at moderate intensity proved especially beneficial.
“The effectiveness of physical exercise was comparable to pharmacological treatment and psychotherapy. This may be linked to the stimulation of neurobiological mechanisms, including the production of neurotrophins in the brain. Neurotrophins are proteins that support neuron survival and stimulate their development and activity,” the scientists concluded.
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