Mixed
The effectiveness of exercise for depression is moderated by participant sex and age, with specific modalities performing better for specific demographics.
To maximize benefits, consider your demographics. Women may find strength training and cycling more effective for depression. Men may find yoga, tai chi, or aerobic exercise combined with therapy more effective. Older adults may benefit more from yoga and aerobic therapy, while younger adults may benefit more from strength training.
Effects appeared larger for women than men for strength training and cycling... Effects appeared to be larger for men than women when prescribing yoga, tai chi, and aerobic exercise alongside psychotherapy.
Why this rating
Based on moderation analysis of a large dataset, but credible intervals are wide for some subgroups.
Source
Effect of exercise for depression: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Michael Noetel et al. · BMJ · 2024
DOI 10.1136/bmj-2023-075847
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