This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Exercise is an effective adjunct to traditional treatments for depression. However, perceived barriers to exercise, correlates of physical activity, and factors related to exercise compliance have not been studied in depressed women. The present study will: 1) survey a large (N=100), community based sample of depressed women to assess their attitudes toward and involvement in exercise activities and 2) use a sub-sample (N=40) of the descriptive study to pilot an exercise intervention and evaluate its effect on depression, fitness, body composition, and exercise adherence factors. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a standard care or structured exercise (plus adherence counseling) group with assessments at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months. Assessments will include a graded exercise test evaluating cardiovascular fitness, body composition analyses, and questionnaires related to depression, exercise behavior, work attendance, and health care utilization. Women will be compensated $25.00 per assessment. Structured exercise group participants will be provided individualized walking programs inclusive of laboratory monitored and home-based phases. In addition, group members will be instructed in cognitive-behavioral techniques such as goal setting, contigency planning, and self-monitoring to promote exercise adherence. The standard care control group will be provided with general information regarding the efficacy of a low cost intervention to treat depression and information to aid in promoting exercise among clinically depressed women.
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