Strong evidence

Physical activity meaningfully reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychological distress.

In practice

Some of what training does for you won't show up in any of the numbers on the progress screen. On weeks where the lifting is going badly, that benefit is still being paid out.

What it doesn't say

Exercise is a supportive intervention, not a replacement for treatment. Anyone struggling with their mental health should speak to a professional rather than train harder.

Source

• Singh B, Olds T, Curtis R, Dumuid D, Virgara R, Watson A, Szeto K, O'Connor E, Ferguson T, Eglitis E, Miatke A, Simpson CEM, Maher C (2023). Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for improving depression, anxiety and distress: an overview of systematic reviews. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 57(18):1203–1209. doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2022-106195