Effect of exercise for depression: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
This systematic review aimed to investigate which modalities of exercise, and in what dose, is useful for helping with depression.
218 studies were examined, with a total of 14170 participants included.
Results:
Moderate reductions in depression were found for walking or jogging (n=1210, κ=51, Hedges’ g −0.62, 95% credible interval −0.80 to −0.45), yoga (n=1047, κ=33, g −0.55, −0.73 to −0.36), strength training (n=643, κ=22, g −0.49, −0.69 to −0.29), mixed aerobic exercises (n=1286, κ=51, g −0.43, −0.61 to −0.24), and tai chi or qigong (n=343, κ=12, g −0.42, −0.65 to −0.21). The effects of exercise were proportional to the intensity prescribed. Strength training and yoga appeared to be the most acceptable modalities.
Limitations of this systematic review:
Studies not blinded — however unable to blind participants to the exercises they are receiving.
Summary and takeaways
Exercise is effective in the treatment of depression. It was found that walking/jogging, strength training, as well as yoga, were the more effective modalities, especially when at a more intense level.
Reference:
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Noetel M, Sanders T, Gallardo-Gómez D, et al. Effect of exercise for depression: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials [published correction appears in BMJ. 2024 May 28;385:q1024. doi: 10.1136/bmj.q1024]. BMJ. 2024;384:e075847. Published 2024 Feb 14. doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-075847
