Combating depression, which currently affects 264 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, involves a range of treatments ranging from medication to physical activity.

This is what a study conducted by researchers developed. University of QueenslandIn the United States, it has been shown that some types of exercise help relieve symptoms of the disease.

Dancing, according to the results of the study, is able to provide a significant reduction in depression, while walking or running, yoga, weight training, Aerobic exercise Tai Chi Chuan also helps to moderately reduce the effects of the disorder.

In theory, the analysis is conclusive in suggesting that even low-intensity exercise, such as light walking, showed improvement in depressive symptoms — although more active situations showed better results.

“Weight training was more effective for women, and yoga or qigong was more effective for men,” explains Dr Michael Nuettl, from the University of Queensland, detailing the study.

Yoga was found to be most effective among older adults, while weight training was most effective among younger adults. “Although light physical activity such as walking and yoga still provided clinically significant effects, the benefits were greatest for vigorous exercise such as running and interval training,” Nuettl added.

Scientists say such activities should be considered, along with psychotherapy and medication, as an essential part of treatment for the disease.

Anti-depression exercises: what does science say?

This is not the first time that academic circles have investigated the relationship between the two factors. Among the countless works on the subject that have already been produced, there is a consensus that physical activity improves mood, reduces stress and anxiety, and increases levels of endorphins, known as the well-being hormone.

In the Australian study, researchers used data from 218 trials involving 14,170 people to determine which specific exercises most effectively help combat depression.

At the end of the analysis period, significant reductions were observed when exercise was combined with the use of antidepressants – under prescription – or with talk therapies.

What can we conclude?

The researchers suggest that physical exercise, especially vigorous exercise, should be included in clinical guidelines for the treatment of depression.

Therefore, maintaining regular physical activity can be an effective way to prevent and treat this disease, which contributes to improving mental health.