# Exercise May Ease Anxiety, Especially Mind-Body and Aerobic Workouts

*The effects of exercise on generalized anxiety symptoms in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: BMC sports science, medicine & rehabilitation
- **Sample Size**: 2,408 adults with generalized anxiety symptoms
- **Authors**: Su H, Li L, Wu J, Nguyen MC, Ding H, Wei C, Zhang Z
- **Published**: 2026-05-13
- **Topics**: exercise, anxiety, mental health
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-026-01728-3
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42129849/

## Summary

Looking at 10 studies of about 2,400 adults with generalized anxiety, researchers found exercise was linked to lower anxiety symptoms. Mind-body workouts like yoga and aerobic exercise showed the biggest effects, while resistance training results were unclear. Programs lasting 8 weeks or more with sessions of 21 to 40 minutes seemed most helpful. However, the studies varied widely, so the authors caution this is suggestive, not definitive.

## Practical Takeaway

This review suggests mind-body or aerobic exercise for at least 8 weeks may help ease anxiety symptoms.

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