Muscle-Strengthening Exercise and Depression in Chinese Young Adults

Studies based on western population have indicated that muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) has positive roles against mental disorders, but little is known about that in Chinese adults. This study, thus, aimed to explore the association between MSE and depression in Chinese university students (aged 18-24 years). A convenient sample of 1794 university students (mean age: 20.67 years) were recruited into this study. A self-reported questionnaire was used to collect information on participants’ sociodemographic information (e.g., sex, body mass index) and MSE. Physical activity and sleep were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Study participants’ depression severity was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. A multilevel linear regression was performed to examine the association between MSE and depression. Only 24.87% of study participants met the World Health Organization MSE guidelines of more than 2 days/week. The mean score of depression was 6.80 (± 5.19). More days for MSE (0-7 days) was negatively associated with depression (beta = -0.17, 95%CI: -0.31 ─ -0.03, p = 0.015). Students who did not meet MSE guidelines were more likely to have higher risks for depression (beta = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.09-0.19, p = 0.027). The results indicate that engaging in MSE could be related to decreased depression in Chinese young adults. Interventions aiming at reducing depression could incorporate MSE as a strategic component.