Aerobic exercise such as running, swimming or dancing can act as a frontline treatment for mild depression and anxiety, researchers say. A large analysis of 63 published reviews covering nearly 80,000 people found that physical activity significantly reduced symptoms, especially in young adults and new mothers.
The findings, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, showed that heart rate–raising aerobic exercise had the strongest impact on depression. Resistance training and yoga also helped, though to a lesser degree. Group or supervised sessions delivered added benefits, suggesting social interaction plays a key role.
Neil Munro of James Cook University said exercise can match or even exceed traditional treatments for mild cases. However, Brendon Stubbs of King’s College London cautioned that exercise should complement, not replace, therapy or medication for more severe depression.
Michael Bloomfield from University College London added that group activities like dance classes may reduce symptoms through movement, connection and routine. Experts stress that while exercise offers meaningful benefits, it works best alongside established treatments when clinically needed.
