High-intensity exercise can help reduce panic symptoms, but current evidence does not show it is generally “more beneficial” than medication. Most experts consider exercise a helpful addition—not a replacement—for standard treatments like medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
What research says
1) Newer studies on high-intensity exercise
- A 2026 clinical study found that brief, high-intensity exercise reduced the frequency and severity of panic attacks more than relaxation training.
- Participants followed a 12-week program with short bursts of intense activity, three times per week.
- The idea: exercise mimics panic sensations (fast heart, heavy breathing), helping people learn those sensations aren’t dangerous.
Important: This study compared exercise to relaxation—not directly to medication.
2) Direct comparisons with medication
- Earlier clinical trials showed both exercise and medication reduce panic symptoms, but medication worked faster and more effectively.
- Systematic reviews also conclude:
- Exercise helps anxiety and panic symptoms.
- But it is generally less effective than antidepressant medication alone.
- Exercise often works best as an add-on to medication or therapy.
Why exercise still matters
Research consistently shows:
- Exercise reduces overall anxiety levels.
- Higher-intensity workouts may give stronger improvements than lighter ones.
- It has extra benefits:
- Better sleep
- Improved mood
- Fewer side effects than medication
Bottom line
Exercise vs medication for panic disorder:
| Treatment | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Medication | Usually faster and more effective alone |
| High-intensity exercise | Helpful, especially for symptom reduction |
| Exercise + medication/CBT | Often the most effective approach |
✅ Best approach:
Most guidelines recommend a combination of:
- CBT (psychological therapy)
- Medication (if needed)
- Regular exercise
