Aerobic exercise such as running, swimming and dancing can act as a frontline treatment for mild depression and anxiety, researchers say. A large review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that physical activity significantly reduced symptoms, especially in young adults and new mothers.
Scientists analysed 63 reviews covering nearly 80,000 people. Aerobic activities that raised the heart rate produced the strongest improvements in depression. Resistance training and yoga also helped, though to a lesser extent. Group and supervised exercise delivered extra benefits, suggesting social interaction plays an important role.
Lead researcher Neil Munro of James Cook University said exercise can match or even exceed traditional treatments in mild cases. However, experts urged caution. Brendon Stubbs of King’s College London stressed that exercise should complement, not replace, medication or therapy for more severe depression.
With hundreds of millions affected worldwide, researchers say accessible, low-cost activities such as group workouts could offer meaningful mental health support alongside established treatments.
