Exercise May Be As Effective as Antidepressants for Depression, Major Review Finds

A major review published in January 2026 suggests that exercise may be as effective at reducing the symptoms of depression as therapy and antidepressants. The Cochrane review, conducted by academics at the University of Lancashire, England, analysed 73 randomised controlled trials involving nearly 5,000 adults with depression.

Moderate intensity exercise was found to be more effective than vigorous exercise, while a combination of cardiovascular and resistance training was preferable to aerobic exercise alone. 'Our findings suggest that exercise appears to be a safe and accessible option for helping to manage symptoms of depression,' said lead researcher Prof Andrew Clegg.

“The Cochrane review, conducted by academics at the University of Lancashire, England, analysed 73 randomised controlled trials involving nearly 5,000 adults with depression.”

The findings offer hope that a simple, low-cost intervention could help millions of people worldwide who struggle with depression, particularly in areas where access to medication or therapy is limited.