Low fitness levels linked to depression and anxiety

A new study led by University College London found that people with low fitness levels are at a much greater risk of depression and anxiety. The study of 152,978 individuals aged between 40 and 69 found that those with the lowest combined aerobic and muscular fitness had 98% higher odds of depression and 60% higher odds of anxiety.

The baseline aerobic fitness at the start of the study was tested using a stationary bike with increasing resistance and the muscular fitness was measured using a grip strength test. Individuals also completed a questionnaire including questions related to depression and anxiety. Seven years later the individuals that had the lowest levels of both aerobic and muscular fitness were found to have 98% higher odds of depression and 60% higher odds of anxiety compared to the individuals with higher levels of both aerobic and muscular fitness. The researchers accounted for all other factors at baseline including chronic illness, diet, mental illness and socioeconomic status.

NOTE: Most people understand that aerobic fitness is extremely important for overall general physical and mental health however less people realise how important grip strength is. Grip strength is a great indicator of overall wellbeing in an adult, a strong grip is linked to longevity and in many cases is a better indicator of health than many other traditional measurements used. A previous study of half a million people in the UK found that grip strength showed a stronger association with cardiovascular disease than blood pressure Another study of more than 13,828 people in the US linked weak hand grip strength with poor cognitive functioning in older individuals.