Exercise intervention for rumination: from neural mechanisms to clinical applications

TL;DR

Exercise can reduce rumination, a risk factor for mood and anxiety disorders, by affecting brain networks and neurotransmitters.

Contribution

This review integrates neurobiological and clinical evidence on how exercise mitigates rumination and suggests optimal intervention strategies.

Findings

Exercise modulates default mode network and PFC-limbic circuits to reduce rumination.

Exercise promotes release of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors linked to mental health.

Therapeutic outcomes depend on exercise modality, intensity, and individual differences.

Abstract

Rumination is a core modifiable cognitive risk factor for the onset and maintenance of mood and anxiety disorders. Exercise emerges as a safe, accessible, and scalable non-pharmacological intervention with potential to mitigate rumination and enhance mental health. This review synthesizes evidence on the neurobiological mechanisms and clinical efficacy of exercise interventions for rumination. Evidence suggests that exercise modulates activity in the default mode network and PFC-limbic circuits, and promotes the release of key neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors. Therapeutic outcomes are influenced by exercise modality, intensity, frequency, and individual differences. Integrating exercise with psychotherapeutic or digital tools could produce synergistic effects. Future research requires large-scale, longitudinal trials to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize personalized intervention strategies.

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