This study quantifies the effects of resistance training on anxiety and worry symptoms in young adults. Young adults who did not meet criteria for an existing clinical condition were randomized to an eight-week resistance training group or an eight-week control group. The study then examined the differences in anxiety and worry of the individual participants from the two groups over time, measured according to a standardized scale used for these symptoms.
The strength training program was developed in accordance with the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the guidelines of the American College of Sports Medicine. A statistical tool was then used to quantify the magnitude of the differences in change between the two groups. Twenty-eight participants (64% female) participated fully in the study (mean age: 26.0± 6.2 years), strength training: n= 14; control group: n= 14). Significant differences in anxiety symptoms were found between the two groups, which increased over time. However, no significant correlation was found for the symptoms of worry.
Conclusion: Strength training significantly improves anxiety symptoms in young adults between the ages of 18 and 32.
A randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Brett R. Gordon, Cillian P. McDowell, Mark Lyons & Matthew P. Herring
Published in nature research 2020
