People with existing neurologic diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease, should be encouraged to exercise. Specialized exercise programs that improve mobility are particularly valuable for Parkinson's patients. Patients with neurological disorders who exercise experience less spasticity as well as reduction in, and even reversal of, muscle atrophy. In addition, the psychological benefits of exercise are extremely important in managing these disorders. Exercise machines, aquatic exercises, and walking are particularly useful.
Effects on Emotional Disorders
Some research has suggested that exercise may have antidepressant effects. Although there is little strong evidence that exercise can help manage depression, a number of studies have suggested benefits. Research findings include:
- Just 30 minutes of brisk exercise three times a week was as effective as medication in relieving the symptoms and reducing relapse in many patients with mild to moderate depression.
- Over half of older women with depression that did not respond to medication improved with 10 weeks of exercise. (About a third of women who did not exercise also improved during that time.)
- Studies on elderly, depressed patients report modest benefits from exercise, even in those who do not response to antidepressants. (Simply participating in a group activity may help improve mood.)
- Teenagers who were active in sports have a greater sense of well being than their sedentary peers; the more vigorously they exercised, the better their emotional health.
- A 2003 study found that physical inactivity is strongly linked to depression in children 8 to 12 years of age.
Specific exercises may be particularly beneficial:
Aerobics. Either brief periods of intense training or prolonged aerobic workouts can raise chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins, adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine, that produce the so-called runner's high. Weight loss and increased muscle tone can boost self-esteem.
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