Overview
- The update synthesized 73 randomized trials with nearly 5,000 adults led by University of Lancashire researchers for Cochrane.
- Compared with no treatment, structured exercise produced a moderate reduction in depressive symptoms.
- Head-to-head evidence indicated effects comparable to psychological therapy, supported by moderate-certainty findings from 10 trials.
- Comparisons with antidepressants suggested similar effects, though the evidence was limited and of low certainty.
- Greater gains were linked to light-to-moderate intensity and about 13–36 sessions, combined or resistance programs appeared more effective than aerobic-only, adverse events were uncommon, and long-term durability remains unclear with authors calling for larger, rigorous trials.