ABS Workout

According to a pioneering study conducted by researchers from Vrije University in Amsterdam, running proves to be equally efficacious as medication in combating depression. In addition to enhancing the physical well-being of patients, the study revealed that a comparable proportion of individuals suffering from depression and anxiety witnessed improvement after a duration of 16 weeks, irrespective of whether they engaged in running or were administered antidepressants (44%).

The participants were assigned to either a supervised running group, attending sessions two to three times a week, or were prescribed the SSRI escitalopram.

The majority of participants opted for physical exercise, which not only enhanced their mental well-being but also yielded favorable outcomes in terms of weight management, waist circumference reduction, blood pressure regulation, and cardiovascular performance. Conversely, individuals relying on antidepressant medication generally witnessed a deterioration in their physical fitness levels.

Nonetheless, it is emphasized by experts that merely advising patients to engage in running is inadequate. The study revealed that a greater number of runners withdrew from the study, with only 52% adhering to the regimen, in contrast to an 82% adherence rate for those receiving medication.

In a media release, Professor Brenda Penninx from Vrije University stated, "Our aim was to compare the effects of exercise and antidepressants on overall health, not solely mental health. Both interventions demonstrated similar efficacy in treating depression. However, antidepressants exhibited negative impacts on body weight, heart rate variability, and blood pressure, whereas running therapy resulted in improved general fitness and heart rate, among other benefits."

The researchers assert that although many patients express interest in engaging in physical exercise, maintaining consistent participation can present challenges. Despite the evident advantages, a greater number of participants adhered to their medication regimen rather than maintaining a twice-weekly exercise routine. The team underscores the significance of adequate supervision and encouragement when promoting physical activity as a form of treatment.

Out of the 141 participants who were given the option of either SSRI antidepressants or group runs for a duration of 16 weeks, 45 individuals opted for medication while 96 chose running. The medication group generally adhered to their prescribed regimen without making significant modifications to their daily routines. On the other hand, the runners engaged in supervised 45-minute group sessions two to three times per week. This approach aimed to counteract the sedentary lifestyles commonly associated with depression and anxiety by promoting outdoor activity, setting goals, and fostering group involvement.

"According to Professor Penninx, it is widely acknowledged that antidepressants are generally deemed safe and efficacious, yielding positive results for the majority of individuals. It is imperative to recognize that untreated depression can lead to unfavorable outcomes. However, it is crucial to expand our repertoire of treatment options, as not all patients exhibit a positive response to antidepressants or are willing to adhere to such medication. Our findings strongly indicate that the incorporation of exercise therapy should be given greater consideration, as it may prove to be a viable alternative, and potentially even superior, for certain patients."

The author of the study also emphasizes the potential adverse effects associated with treatments and underscores the significance of tapering and discontinuing antidepressants when deemed appropriate.

The research has been published in the Journal of Affective Disorders and was presented at the 36th European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Congress held in Barcelona.