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The Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Mindful Breathing on Individuals With Major Depressive Disorder in Saudi Arabia
Sponsor: University of Pretoria
Summary
The goal of this Randomized Clinical Trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of aerobic exercise (AE) and mindful breathing (MB) on depressive symptom severity and quality of life (QoL), in adults with MDD. The main question is: Does aerobic exercise and mindful breathing delivery reduce depressive symptom severity and improve quality of life more effectively than standard psychiatric care? The aims to answer are: 1. To determine the effect of aerobic exercise interventions on depressive symptoms of individuals diagnosed with MDD. 2. To determine the effect of aerobic exercise interventions on health-related quality of life among individuals diagnosed with MDD. 3. To determine the effect of mindful breathing exercises on depressive symptoms among individuals diagnosed with MDD. 4. To determine the effect of the mindful breathing exercise intervention on quality of life amongst individuals diagnosed with MDD. Participants will be randomized into three groups: 1. 45 minutes of moderate AE (60-75% HRR); 2. 15 minutes of guided mindful breathing (6 breaths/minute); 3. a waitlist control receiving standard care. \*Interventions will occur three times a week for 16 weeks.
Official title: The Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Mindful Breathing on Symptom Severity and Quality of Life in Individuals With Major Depressive Disorder in Saudi Arabia: A Randomised Clinical Trial Protocol
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 60 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2026-06-15
Completion Date
2026-11-14
Last Updated
2026-06-04
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Aerobic exercise
Aerobic or cardiovascular exercise is characterized by activities that engage large muscle groups, including walking, jogging, or cycling. Regular aerobic exercise can improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall fitness.
Mindful Breathing
Mindful breathing can include diaphragmatic breathing, deep breathing, and controlled breathing techniques, which focus on regulating and optimizing the process of inhalation and exhalation. These techniques enhance respiratory function, increase lung capacity, and promote relaxation by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Therefore, they have been used in various therapeutic contexts to manage stress, anxiety, and mood disorders, including MDD, by regulating emotions and the stress response.
Locations (2)
Erada Hospital and Mental Health in Al Kharj
Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
Erada complex and Mental Health in Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia