Decoding the Optimal Aerobic Exercise Dose for Alleviating Depression in Youth: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis

Highlight

• Aerobic exercise significantly reduces depressive symptoms in children and adolescents.
• Optimal benefits seen with moderate-intensity exercise (4.0-5.9 METs), 30-45 min per session, 3-4 times weekly over 6-10 weeks.
• The ideal dose for symptom improvement is approximately 590 METs-minutes per week.
• Effects are more pronounced in adolescents and those with clinically diagnosed depression.

Study Background