Research
Mixed
Resistance exercise training (RET) significantly reduces depressive symptoms in adults, regardless of health status, total prescribed volume, or strength improvements.
Engage in resistance exercise training (RET) to reduce depressive symptoms. The specific volume, frequency, or intensity does not need to be optimized for strength gains, as the antidepressant effect is independent of these factors. Aim for a sustainable routine (e.g., 3 days/week) regardless of the total volume or whether you get stronger.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Resistance exercise training significantly reduced depressive symptoms among adults regardless of health status, total prescribed volume of RET, or significant improvements in strength.
Why this rating
Meta-analysis of 33 randomized clinical trials with 1877 participants, though heterogeneity was high.
Source
Association of Efficacy of Resistance Exercise Training With Depressive Symptoms
Brett R. Gordon et al. · JAMA Psychiatry · 2018
Meta-analysis · 33 studiesCited 462×
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