High- vs Low-Frequency Exercise for Depression in Adolescents

This research project aims to examine the antidepressant effects of different exercise routines on adolescent depression, which has risen significantly in recent years. Depression, particularly prevalent among adolescents at a global rate of around 12%, is associated with reduced positive emotional responses and difficulties in managing negative emotions. Prior studies indicate that physical activity can boost positive moods, like feelings of excitement and calm, potentially leading to overall mood stabilization with regular exercise. However, results on how exercise influences negative moods remain inconsistent. This study will compare two exercise routines-a single 60-minute weekly session versus four 15-minute weekly sessions of moderate-intensity running-over three weeks to determine which approach has a stronger effect on reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents.