Strength training, aka lifting weights or resistance exercise, has been shown in numerous studies to be effective at combating depression and anxiety.
Yet another study, that comes from the University of Limerick in Ireland and Iowa State University, demonstrates that resistance exercise can positively impact anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Published in the journal Trends in Molecular Medicine, the research was conducted by Professor Matthew P. Herring at the University of Limerick and Professor Jacob D. Meyer at Iowa State University.
The study highlights that resistance exercise training may serve as an effective alternative therapy for anxiety and depression.
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This form of exercise has the added benefit of improving other health aspects – not to mention doesn’t come with the side effects typical of antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs such as constipation and drowsiness.
The researchers acknowledge the need for more extensive trials to address the limitations of small sample sizes in current studies.
They point to early findings indicating that resistance exercise can lead to increased insulin-like growth factor 1, cerebrovascular adaptations and potential neural adaptations influenced by controlled breathing during exercise.
Professor Meyer notes in the report that strength training can offer distinct and shared benefits compared to aerobic exercise, potentially making it a valuable standalone or complementary therapy for anxiety and depression.
Future research aims to identify the populations that would benefit most from resistance training and to understand the mechanisms behind its positive effects on mental health.
Depressed? Or suffer from anxiety?
Hit the gym. Yes – pick up some weights or use a resistance machine.
You won’t ever have to worry about negative side effects.
There’s nothing like feeling and being physically stronger to help alleviate depression and anxiety.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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