While considerable research has proven that regular exercise has an important impact in decreasing depression, little research has focused on the benefits for individuals suffering from schizophrenia.

Exercise May Have Reduced Psychiatric Symptoms: In a small 16-week walking program for outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia (N = 10), those in the walking group experienced significant reductions in body fat (p = 0.03) compared to a control group. Walkers also had greater aerobic fitness, lower body mass indexes, and fewer psychiatric symptoms than controls at the conclusion of the program. Effects of exercise on mental and physical health parameters of persons with schizophrenia. Beebe LH, et al. University of Florida. Issues Ment Health Nurs. 2005 Jul;26(6):661-76