ADVERTISEMENT
Strength Training May Alleviate Depression
Large study shows strong association between muscle strengthening and lower likelihood of depression.
By Shirley Archer, JD, MA
Nov 9, 2020
| Earn 1 CEC - Take Quiz
With many people feeling stressed by the pandemic, it has become a priority to boost mental, as well as physical, health. Many studies substantiate the power of cardiovascular training to reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety. New research shows that strength training, like aerobic exercise, may be an effective way to prevent or alleviate depression.
German and Australian researchers conducted a large, population-based study using data from the 2014 German Health Update. The study included a representative sample of 23,602 German adults and investigated any association between resistance training and depressive symptoms.
Data analysis showed that adults who participated in any type of muscle-strengthening exercises, from body-weight workouts to machine-based training, were less likely to experience depressive symptoms. This finding was the same whether people trained one to two times each week or three to five times weekly. The important take-home message? Lift weights.
The study appeared in the Journal of Affective Disorders (2020; 266, 282–87). To learn more about the connection between exercise and mental health, read “Train Yourself Happy.”
When you buy something using the retail links in our content, we may earn a small commission. IDEA Health and Fitness Association does not accept money for editorial reviews. Read more about our Terms & Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Articles
Does Exercise Suppress the Immune System?
Plyometric Jump Training and Volleyball
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay up tp date with our latest news and products.