The Effects of Aerobic and Resistance Exercise on Depression and Anxiety: Systematic Review With Meta‐Analysis
Abstract
ABSTRACT Exercise can reduce physiological and psychological symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. However, it is unknown which mode of exercise, if any, is more beneficial. To determine whether aerobic, resistance, or aerobic and resistance exercise improves depressive and/or anxiety symptoms in individuals diagnosed with depression or anxiety. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Five electronic databases were searched, until February 24, 2024. Studies were included for analysis based on satisfying quality appraisal standards and the established inclusion criteria associated with aerobic or resistance exercise in adults with a diagnosis of depression or anxiety. Random effects meta‐analysis was performed where possible. Thirty‐two randomised controlled trial studies (n = 3243 participants) met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review, and 26 studies (n = 2681 participants) were included in the meta‐analyses. For the 25 studies assessing the effect of exercise on depressive symptoms, the pooled standardised mean difference (SMD) favoured exercise as a beneficial treatment of depression (−0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] −1.28 to −0.66), with a large magnitude of effect. For the 11 studies reporting the effect of exercise on anxiety symptoms, the pooled SMD results revealed that exercise had a significant, moderate magnitude of effect favouring exercise treatment (−0.66, 95% CI −1.09 to…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 3,243 participants or records.
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