Exercise Shown to Match Antidepressants in Treating Depression, Major Review Finds

Regular physical activity may ease depressive symptoms as effectively as standard antidepressant treatments, according to a new synthesis of clinical research published by Science & Vie. The findings highlight exercise as a credible therapeutic option—though not a universal substitute—for people living with depression.

A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that moving the body—whether through walking, gardening, strength training, or moderate aerobic exercise—can significantly reduce symptoms of depression. A new large‑scale review reported by Science & Vie indicates that, in many cases, the benefits of regular physical activity are comparable to those of antidepressant medication.

A Widespread Mental Health Challenge

Depression remains one of the most common mental health disorders worldwide, affecting millions and often requiring long‑term care. Traditional treatments typically include medication and psychotherapy, both of which can vary in effectiveness from person to person. The new analysis reinforces a third pillar that has long been suspected but only recently validated with robust data: structured physical activity.

A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Trials

Researchers examined dozens of randomized controlled trials involving adults with mild to severe depression. Their conclusion: individuals who engaged in regular exercise experienced a meaningful reduction in depressive symptoms compared with those receiving no treatment. The updated review nearly doubles the amount of available data compared with the previous major analysis from 2013, thanks in part to a January 2026 update from the Cochrane Library.

The studies included a wide range of activities—brisk walking, muscle‑strengthening routines, gardening, and more vigorous sports. This diversity strengthens the findings, showing that the antidepressant effect is not tied to a single type of exercise.

Exercise vs. Antidepressants: A Surprising Tie

When exercise was directly compared with psychotherapy or antidepressant medication, the differences in effectiveness were minimal. In short‑term outcomes, no approach clearly outperformed the others. These results echo similar conclusions reported by New Scientist earlier in January 2026, based on analyses led by Andrew Clegg at the University of Lancashire.

Interestingly, light to moderate exercise appeared more beneficial than high‑intensity workouts. Researchers suggest that accessibility and adherence may explain this trend: people are more likely to stick with activities that feel manageable and enjoyable.

Why Exercise Isn’t a Universal Replacement

Despite its promise, exercise is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. Several limitations remain:

- Placebo effects may influence results, since participants know whether they are exercising or not.

- Biological mechanisms—such as the role of anti‑inflammatory myokines released during muscle activity—are still not fully understood.

- Severity matters: individuals with severe depression may struggle to initiate or maintain physical activity, making medication or therapy more appropriate as first‑line treatments.

Experts emphasize that exercise should be viewed as a complementary option, integrated according to each person’s abilities, preferences, and clinical needs.

A More Nuanced Therapeutic Landscape

The emerging consensus is clear: physical activity deserves a central place in the treatment of depression. While it may not replace medication or therapy for everyone, it offers a powerful, accessible, and low‑cost tool that can meaningfully improve mental health.

As research continues to evolve, clinicians may increasingly prescribe movement not just for physical well‑being, but as a core component of emotional recovery.