A study released in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests regular vigorous exercise may improve not only heart health but also mental health, according to media reports Thursday. (File Photo)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhuanet) -- A study released in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests regular vigorous exercise may improve not only heart health but also mental health, according to media reports Thursday.

    Researchers at the University of Bristol found that those who got regular vigorous exercise were less likely to develop depression or an anxiety disorder over time.

    The research team used data from a 10-year follow-up of 1,158 middle-aged British men. At the beginning of the study, the men reported on their exercise habits and any on-the-job physical activity. They also completed standard screening questionnaires for depression and anxiety at three points over the study period.

    In general, men who reported regular vigorous exercise -- such as running or playing soccer -- were about one-quarter less likely than their less active peers to develop depression or anxiety over the next 5 years.

    The benefit was no longer evident at the 10-year mark, however.

    Though exercise did not show a strong impact on men's mental health in this study, the findings pointed to one more reason to get off the couch, according to the researchers.

    It's thought that exercise may directly affect depression through actions on certain brain chemicals; it might also have indirect benefits by improving self-esteem or body image.

    (Agencies)