Exercise May Match Therapy or Antidepressants for Depression, Large Review Finds

Depression can drain motivation and confidence, making even simple daily actions feel harder. New findings discussed in this report point to a way people may break that cycle: structured physical activity. A major review of more than 70 randomized trials found that exercise—resistance training included—can deliver benefits on depressive symptoms similar to those seen with therapy or antidepressant treatment, according to lead author Andrew Clegg, PhD, a professor at the University of Lancashire in England.

The article also explains why the relationship can be difficult: depression makes it harder to start exercising, while low activity may worsen depressive symptoms. Still, the research offers patterns that could help patients use movement as one part of a broader plan.

Exercise can be one option alongside other treatments

Psychologist Michael Noetel, PhD, an associate professor at the University of Queensland in Australia, describes depression as highly debilitating and notes research indicating it can reduce life satisfaction substantially. In his 2024 review, exercise showed “moderate, clinically meaningful” effects when combined with antidepressants or psychotherapy. The article also cites a small 2018 study in which people with major depression did best when exercise, medication, and therapy were used together, reinforcing the idea that more than one approach may be needed.

Intensity appeared to matter more than “taking it easy.”

Noetel says he initially expected gentler programs would work best for people with depression, but the data did not support that. In the research discussed, more vigorous exercise worked better than gentle exercise, even in shorter sessions of about 10 to 20 minutes. The piece describes “vigorous” as reaching a point where you can’t keep a conversation going though that threshold differs based on individual fitness levels.

No single exercise type clearly outperformed the rest

The large review found no clear “best” type of exercise overall. Noetel’s research showed evidence supporting walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training. Dance appeared to show strong benefits for major depression, but the article stresses the evidence was limited to only five studies and 107 total participants, mostly young women, so firm conclusions can’t be made.

The report also notes that research is fragmented, often drawn from many small trials across different populations. Because studies are demanding to run, long-term evidence remains limited, and Clegg says it’s not yet possible to define precisely what works best for which individuals.

Some subgroup signals, and a surprising note on adherence

The article mentions patterns seen in Noetel’s review: strength training and bicycling seemed to work better for women, while yoga and tai chi seemed more helpful for men. Older participants appeared to benefit more from yoga, while younger participants did better with strength training.

Another point the report calls out is dropout rates: they were generally low across studies, especially in strength training and yoga programs. Clegg suggests depression may make it harder to sign up, but with support and accountability, many participants continued.

Support, planning, and “mastery” as part of the approach

The article emphasizes not exercising alone when possible. Group settings or working with a trainer may reduce social isolation and also encourage people to push a bit harder than they might solo. If a trainer or class isn’t available, the report suggests building accountability through concrete scheduling—treating workouts like appointments—and tracking sessions using a preferred method (such as a tracker, spreadsheet, or notebook).

It also introduces “mastery” (self-efficacy) as a potential driver of exercise’s antidepressant effects. The idea is that progressing—lifting heavier, running farther, or improving focus in practices like yoga or tai chi—can challenge depression’s message that change isn’t possible.

Improvement may take time

Finally, the article stresses patience. Just like therapy or antidepressants may take time and adjustment, exercise benefits can depend on practical limitations (physical, financial, social, or motivational) and on finding an activity someone can stick with. Clegg encourages keeping the evidence in perspective and seeking professional guidance when deciding what combination of treatments fits best.

For patients living with depressive symptoms, this report reinforces that exercise may be considered as part of treatment planning, potentially alongside therapy and/or antidepressant medication, rather than as a replacement. It also highlights that support and structure may matter: group exercise, trainers, or even a walking partner can add accountability and reduce isolation, which the article describes as a key symptom of depression.

For patients exploring care options across borders, the emphasis on combining approaches may shape what they look for in a clinic or program, such as access to mental health professionals plus guided, supervised exercise planning and follow-up strategies that help with consistency over time.

FAQS

Q1: What does the new review say about exercise and depression?

It reports that exercise, including resistance training, showed benefits comparable to therapy or antidepressants across more than 70 randomized trials.

Q2: Does the article say one type of exercise is best for depression?

No. The review found no clear winner overall, though evidence supported several options, including walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training.

Q3: What kind of workout intensity seemed to work better in the research discussed?

The article says vigorous exercise worked better than gentle exercise, even when sessions were only about 10 to 20 minutes.

Q4: Why can depression make exercise harder to start?

The report explains that depression can reduce energy and motivation, which can make it difficult to begin or sustain physical activity.

Q5: What limitations does the article highlight about the evidence?

It notes the evidence comes from many small trials in varied populations, and long-term research is limited because exercise studies often run for weeks or months rather than years.

Medical Disclaimer

“This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.”