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Influence of aerobic exercise on depression.
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
|May 1, 1984
Summary
Strenuous aerobic exercise significantly improved aerobic capacity and reduced depression in women more than relaxation or no treatment. This study offers controlled evidence on exercise
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Depression is a prevalent mood disorder.
- The therapeutic effects of exercise on mental health are under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of strenuous aerobic exercise on depression.
- To compare aerobic exercise with relaxation and no treatment.
Main Methods:
- Forty-three women with depression were randomized into three groups: aerobic exercise, relaxation (placebo), or no treatment.
- Aerobic capacity and self-reported depression were measured over a 10-week period.
Main Results:
- Aerobic exercise significantly improved aerobic capacity compared to both other groups (p < .002).
- Aerobic exercise led to greater reductions in depression than placebo (p = .05) and no treatment (p = .001).
Conclusions:
- Strenuous aerobic exercise is an effective intervention for reducing depression.
- This study provides controlled evidence for the positive impact of exercise on mental health.