Walking, Yoga, and Strength Training: The Best Workouts for Beating Depression, Says Research
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, severely impacting life quality more than issues like debt, divorce, and diabetes. While treatments such as medications and therapy help many, some people don't respond to these options or can't easily access them. Recognizing this, a study published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine explored whether exercise could be a game-changer for those battling depression. The research analyzed data from 218 studies involving over 14,000 participants, aiming to pinpoint what kinds of physical activity might best alleviate depressive symptoms.
Exercise is already recommended in clinical guidelines from countries like the US, UK, and Australia as a potential remedy for depression, but the advice on what type and how much has been vague. This study sought to clear up that confusion, finding that activities such as walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training can significantly reduce depression symptoms compared to doing nothing. These results suggest considering exercise not just as an add-on but as a key option for treating depression.
Interestingly, the study found that not all exercises have the same effect on everyone. For instance, yoga showed particular benefits for older adults and men, whereas women seemed to gain more from strength training. This points to the idea that when it comes to fighting depression with exercise, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work; what's effective can vary based on who you are.
However, the researchers caution that despite the encouraging findings, the strength of evidence varies among different types of exercise. They're calling for more research to fine-tune these recommendations and better understand why exercise helps with depression.
In simple terms, this research supports the idea that moving your body can be a powerful tool against depression, potentially offering a lifeline to those who haven't found relief through traditional treatments. As this idea takes hold, it could lead to treatment plans that prominently feature exercise as a main strategy for tackling depression, making it a standard part of the conversation and care for those suffering from this debilitating condition.
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