Does ceasing exercise induce depressive symptoms? A systematic review of experimental trials including immunological and neurogenic markers.

Journal of Affective Disorders

This review looked at 9 different studies that investigated the cessation of exercise in 152 adults. In this case regular exercise was at least 30 minutes of movement, three times a week, for a minimum of three months. Simple enough.

After reviewing tha data, the lead author noted that “in some cases, ceasing this amount of exercise induced significant increases in depressive symptoms after just three days."  

Researchers concluded that stopping regular exercise increased depressive symptoms in healthy adults, with a greater decline in females than males. Notably, the symptoms were related closely to a decline in immune function (reduced CRP and IL-6, without increased TNF). Sounds familiar (see above study).


Takeaway: People who are depressed will likely benefit from exercise, sure, but people who are healthy might have an adverse reaction if they suddenly stop moving. A good reminder that movement is equally important to physical and mental well-being.