Physical Exercise Improves Your Mood And Well-being

• 24.10.2026, 16:39

In some cases, exercise is more effective than medication.

In some cases, physical activity is just as effective as antidepressants. However, many mental health professionals do not receive the specialized training that would allow them to prescribe physical activity as part of treatment, writes Psychology Today (translation by Charter97.org).

Beneficial activities include walking, running, cycling, strength training, and yoga. They help improve sleep and metabolism, reduce inflammation, and regulate the body’s response to stress.

However, the advice to “move more” doesn’t always help on its own. People may need support and a clear exercise plan.

To determine the appropriate level of exercise, experts recommend using the FITT principle—considering frequency, intensity, duration, and type of exercise. As a guideline, three to five workouts per week, each lasting 45–60 minutes at moderate or high intensity, are recommended. Aerobic exercise, strength training, or yoga are all suitable options.

That said, you can start with a lower volume. Even one or two workouts per week lasting 10–30 minutes will be beneficial.

“Better a little than nothing,” the article states.

Physical activity is not a substitute for necessary treatment, but it can be an important part of it. When choosing exercises, you should take your health into account, and discuss any changes to your depression treatment with a specialist.