The role of physical exercise in alcoholism treatment and recovery

A growing body of literature has demonstrated that physical exercise is associated with favorable mental health outcomes. Exercise has the potential to be an accessible and affordable adjunct treatment option for persons with alcohol use disorders (AUD); however, exercise-based interventions have rarely been applied to this population. The authors examine the potential role of physical exercise in the process of recovery from AUD. Possible physiological, psychological, and social mechanisms whereby exercise may exert influence on alcohol use outcomes are outlined. Studies examining the effects of physical exercise on alcohol and other addictive behaviors are reviewed, and the viability of structured, exercise-based adjunct interventions for AUD populations is discussed.