Aerobic exercise such as running, swimming or dancing can serve as a frontline treatment for mild depression and anxiety, researchers say. A major analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reviewed 63 studies covering nearly 80,000 people.
Scientists found the strongest benefits in young adults and new mothers, groups at higher risk of mental health problems. Activities that raised the heart rate had the greatest impact on depression, while resistance training and yoga showed smaller effects. Group or supervised exercise delivered additional benefits, suggesting social connection plays an important role.
Lead researcher Neil Munro of James Cook University said exercise can sometimes match or exceed traditional treatments for mild symptoms. However, Brendon Stubbs from King’s College London warned that exercise should not replace medication or therapy for severe depression. Michael Bloomfield of UCL added that while group activities like dance classes can help, they should complement established treatments where clinically needed.
