AEROBIC VS RESISTANCE EXERCISE IN THE TREATMENT OF DEPRESSION: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5903Keywords:
Depression; Physical Activity; Aerobic Exercise; Resistance Training; Strength Training; Mental Health; Non-Pharmacological TreatmentAbstract
Introduction. Depression is one of the most significant global health concerns and a leading cause of disability worldwide [1]. Approximately 4% of the global population is affected by depression, including 5.7% of adults (4.6% among men and 6.9% among women), as well as 5.9% of adults aged 70 years and older [2]. Depression is closely associated with physical health, and growing evidence suggests that physical activity, including aerobic and resistance exercise, may play an important role in reducing depressive symptoms [3-8].
Purpose. The study aimed to review and compare the effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on depressive symptoms and to evaluate their potential role in the treatment of depression.
Methods. This narrative review was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed. Relevant studies, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, were selected based on their focus on physical activity interventions in individuals with depression. Both aerobic and resistance exercise modalities were analyzed and compared.
Results. Both aerobic exercise and resistance training were found to reduce depressive symptoms. Aerobic exercise demonstrated consistent effectiveness, particularly in individuals with mild to moderate depression [5,6], while resistance training also showed beneficial effects, potentially through distinct physiological and psychological mechanisms [6,9,10]. Current evidence does not clearly indicate the superiority of one type of training over the other, although some studies suggest that combined training may provide the greatest benefits.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Aleksandra Marzec, Natalia Krupa, Natalia Marzec, Weronika Praska, Joanna Zajączkowska, Natalia Domańska, Dominika Galińska, Anna Roman, Małgorzata Cherek, Stanisław Wardęcki
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