Exercise and depression in midlife: A prospective study

Objectives. This study examines the relationship of self-reported physical activity with subsequent depression and psychiatric distress. Methods. Physical activity was assessed in medical school and midlife in 973 physicians as part of a prospective observational study. Outcome measures were the incidence of self-reported clinical depression and psychiatric distress on the General Health Questionnaire. Results. The risk of depression was similar for nonexercisers and exercisers. No relationship was observed between physical activity level and subsequent psychiatric distress. Conclusions. This study found no evidence that exercise reduces risk for depression or psychiatric distress.