Factors Influencing Exercise Engagement Among Women With Depression: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Exercise Science
• Women's Health

Background:

• Exercise shows promise for treating depression.
• Women with depression may exercise less than men.
• Understanding barriers and enablers for women is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers and enablers for women with depression engaging in exercise.
• To review existing literature on exercise interventions for depression in women.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies from 2004 to February 2025.
• Searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and SportDISCUS.
• Included studies reporting findings separately for women; excluded those without.

Main Results:

• Key barriers: lack of time, depression symptoms, weather, low self-efficacy, caregiving, safety concerns, and needing permission.
• Key enablers: family/friend support, weight loss motivation, perceived health/wellbeing impact.
• Methodological quality varied, with significant bias noted in most studies.

Conclusions:

• Exercise is a viable depression treatment for women, but adoption is hindered by specific barriers.
• Addressing barriers and leveraging enablers can improve exercise engagement for depression treatment in women.