Resistance training volume for major depressive disorder: the MoveMind randomized controlled trial protocol

Abstract

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of resistance training (RT) volume (high vs. low) and non-exercise group on depressive symptoms, remission rates, adherence and the psychological and neurobiological mechanisms underlying these effects in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). A total of 150 adults (18–59 years) diagnosed with MDD will be randomized into three groups: high-volume RT (HV, n=50; 4 sets of 10–12 repetition maximum [RM]), low-volume RT (LV, n=50; 2 sets of 10–12 RM), and a non-exercise control group (CG, n=50). Participants in the intervention groups will train three non-consecutive days per week for 8 weeks. The primary outcome, depressive symptoms, will be assessed by a psychiatrist using the Montgomery– Åsberg Depression Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes will include potential psychological mechanisms (perceived self-efficacy, affective responses to exercise, and well-being), assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and at the 3-month follow-up, and neurobiological mechanisms assessed by inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers related to MDD pathophysiology, including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, CRP, IGF-1, BDNF, insulin, glucose, and cortisol, measured before and after the intervention. Tertiary outcomes will include dietary intake and ultra-processed food consumption (24-hour dietary recall), body composition (DXA), muscular strength, and sleep quality. Intervention efficacy will be analyzed using intention-to-treat linear mixed-effects models. The findings may contribute to more effective, personalized, and sustainable RT prescriptions that improve adherence and complement conventional treatments for MDD. Clinical Trials Registration: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-9tn4ncp, identifier RBR-9tn4ncp.