Effects of a physical activity program on depression parameters in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this survey was to meet the exercise-induced psychological modifications in postmenopausal women. Method: 30 postmenopausal women (54,00 ± 5,6 years) participated in this survey, they were classified in two groups: Depression Group (DG) (n=15) and Control Group (CG) (n=15). The program of physical activity had a duration of 6 months and consisted of low to moderate physical exercises (50-60% of the maximal hearth rate of reserve) and with a weekly frequency of 4 days. Results: the obtained results showed no improvement in the depression indexes, however a positive trend in the parameters of depression has been observed. Conclusion: results indicate that regular, systematic low intensity physical training, 4 days/week is not enough to reduce the depressive symptoms or to improve the mood state in postmenopausal depressive women. It is necessary more studies with different exercise intensity to clarify the effect on depression.

Keywords

• Depression;
• physical activity
• menopause