effects of physical exercise on mental health among adults in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

ABSTRACT

To study the frequency of anxiety, depression amongst those who exercise regularly and those who do not. A cross-sectional study was conducted in different gyms and health clubs in Ajman during March 2012. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 350 people aged 18 to 65 years selected using a convenient sampling technique. Females [55.0%] are more likely to be anxious than men [46.4%]. Females [39.9%] are also more likely to be depressed compared to males [26.4%]. Chi square test showed anxiety levels were significantly increased in non-exercisers compared to exerciser [p value <0.015. Individuals that exercised had a lower prevalence of depression [28.9%] than non-exercisers [41.8%]. Physical exercise activity was significantly associated with decreased anxiety level and decreased depression. Results suggest the need for educating on the positive health effects of exercise