This network meta-analysis looked at how different types of physical activity affect mental health. The study included 2,127 university students aged 18 years or older. Researchers compared structured exercise interventions against control conditions where no specific exercise was required.
The analysis found that exercise was associated with improvements in depression, anxiety, and stress compared to control conditions. The types of exercise included mind-body practices, aerobic activity, team sports, and resistance-based approaches. No adverse events or discontinuations were reported in the data provided.
However, the researchers noted substantial heterogeneity and variation in how outcomes were measured. Findings regarding the intensity and frequency of exercise should be considered exploratory rather than definitive. Limited evidence was available for team sports and resistance-based approaches specifically.
Readers should understand that while time-efficient moderate to vigorous exercise could inform future research on student mental health, the results are not yet practice-changing. Effects should be interpreted cautiously due to the variation in study measures.