Association of exercise type and levels with depressive symptoms in a Korean population

BACKGROUND: This study examined whether the relationship between exercise and depressive symptoms varied by exercise type. It also explored how the duration of the training period and the weekly time spent on each exercise type were associated with depressive symptoms. METHODS: Data from 19,112 participants in nationwide Korean cohorts were analyzed. Based on their participation in regular exercise, participants were divided into the following groups: “never-exercise,” “leisure-time walking (performing at usual pace),” and “structured exercise.” The structured exercise group was further classified into “aerobic exercise,” “resistance exercise,” and “sports.” The training period and weekly exercise time for each group were analyzed to determine the optimal training level of exercise associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate this risk. RESULTS: Compared with the never-exercise group, leisure-time walking, aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and sports were associated with 19%, 41%, 40%, and 46% lower risks of depressive symptoms, respectively. Furthermore, aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and sports were associated with 30%, 30%, and 41% reductions in risk, respectively, compared with leisure-time walking. When considering training levels, performing leisure-time walking, aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and sports for at least 150 min/week for at least one year was associated with a risk reduction of 31%, 48%, 45%, and 57%, respectively, compared with the never-exercise group. Across all exercise groups, engaging in ≥ 300 min/week was not associated with additional benefits. CONCLUSIONS: While leisure-time walking was associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms, structured exercise provided greater benefits. However, engaging in any form of exercise for at least 150 min/week for at least one year is recommended to reduce this risk.