Table 2 Characteristics of Studies comparing High Intensity to Low Intensity Exercise

Broman-Fulks, 2004 [43]

n = 54

Students with a score of 25 or more (0.75 SD over the mean) on the Anxiety Sensitivity Index

Six 20 min treadmill sessions at high intensity for 2 weeks. Polaris heart monitor to assess HR. 60–90% HR max.

Six 20 min walking at low intensity over two weeks.

Yes

Measurements repeated one week later

Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), and State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI trait)

Sexton et al 1989 [44]

n = 40

Non-psychotic Inpatients with anxiety disorders

Jogging, 30 mins 3 or 4 times per week for 8 weeks at 70% HR max

Walking for 3 or 4 times per week over 8 weeks at a comfortable speed.

Yes

Yes, 6 months later

State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI trait)

Steptoe et al 1989 [45]

n = 33

Volunteers with anxiety levels in the “borderline” or “definite” range on HADS scale and/or raised score on the Profile of Moods States.

10 weeks of one supervise and three unsupervised sessions. 20 mins of continuous walking at 60–65% HR max.

10 weeks of one supervise and three unsupervised sessions. Strength, mobility and flexibility not above 50% HR max.

Yes

Yes at 3 months

State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI trait)

Gaudlitz et al.. 2015 [46]

n = 47

Participants had Panic Disorder according to DSMIV criteria

30 mins on treadmill 3 times per week for 8 weeks to 70% VO2 max.

Low intensity stretching exercises for 30 mins 3 times per week for 8 weeks

Yes

Yes at 7 months

Hamilton Anxiety Scale (Ham-A), BAI

Martinsen et al, 1989 [42]

n = 79

Patients meeting DSM III criteria for panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, Generalised anxiety disorder or social phobia.

Brisk walking or jogging to 70% VO2 max, Trained 3 times per week for 8 weeks.

Anaerobic training - strength, flexibility and relaxation - low intensity.

Yes

No

Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS), Phobic Avoidance Rating Scale (PARS)