What is the evidence for physical activity in the prevention of depression

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Physical activity had a protective effect against the emergence of depression in:
- youth (adjusted odds ratio=0.90, 95% CI=0.83, 0.98)
- adults (adjusted odds ratio=0.78, 95% CI=0.70, 0.87)
- persons at older age (adjusted odds ratio=0.79, 95%CI=0.72, 0.86).
Evidence supports the notion that physical activity can confer important protection against the emergence of depression regardless of geographical region.
33,000 people with no mental health conditions were followed up for ~11 years.
Those who reported no exercise at baseline had 44% higher odds of developing depression compared with those who were exercising 1-2 hours a week.
12% of depression cases could be prevented with at least 1 hour exercise per week.