Exercise as medicine? new trial tests workouts for depression

NCT ID NCT06989944

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether a 12-week physical activity program can reduce depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. 110 participants are split into two groups: one continues antidepressant treatment alone, the other adds a tailored exercise routine. Researchers will measure changes in mood, brain activity, and biological markers.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

physical activity program

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to help manage depression symptoms.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (110 people) looking at many different outcomes, so results may not be conclusive or widely applicable.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Azienda Sanitaria Locale di Pescara

    Pescara, 65124, Italy

  • IRCCS Centro San Giovanni fi Dio Fatebenefratelli

    Brescia, 25125, Italy

  • IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele

    Milan, 20132, Italy

  • Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, NEUROMED

    Isernia, 86077, Italy