This chapter examines how distinct exercise modalities may support recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military veterans. Framed by brief definitions of PTSD and its core symptom clusters, the chapter reviews aerobic, anaerobic, flexibility, and functional training as complementary strategies alongside standard care. Drawing on recent literature and a qualitative study with six veterans formally diagnosed with PTSD, we consider feasibility, benefits, and risks, including symptom relief, behavioural change, and issues of access and personalisation. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews identified four themes: pre-diagnosis enjoyment of physical activity and its formative role; the positive impact of exercise on PTSD symptoms through affect regulation, sleep improvement and confidence; behaviour change after diagnosis via structured routines and goal setting; and comparisons with other treatments, where participants often described exercise as a more empowering, holistic practice. While small-scale and subject to selection bias, the findings align with emerging evidence that exercise can reduce symptom burden and enhance well-being when adapted to individual needs, capacities, and contexts. The chapter concludes by outlining implications for inclusive, trauma-informed exercise programming and sets up the next phase of research: a broader quantitative survey to test these patterns in a larger veteran sample.

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Exploring the Role of Physical Exercise in the Treatment of PTSD Among Military Veterans

  • James Alder

摘要

This chapter examines how distinct exercise modalities may support recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military veterans. Framed by brief definitions of PTSD and its core symptom clusters, the chapter reviews aerobic, anaerobic, flexibility, and functional training as complementary strategies alongside standard care. Drawing on recent literature and a qualitative study with six veterans formally diagnosed with PTSD, we consider feasibility, benefits, and risks, including symptom relief, behavioural change, and issues of access and personalisation. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews identified four themes: pre-diagnosis enjoyment of physical activity and its formative role; the positive impact of exercise on PTSD symptoms through affect regulation, sleep improvement and confidence; behaviour change after diagnosis via structured routines and goal setting; and comparisons with other treatments, where participants often described exercise as a more empowering, holistic practice. While small-scale and subject to selection bias, the findings align with emerging evidence that exercise can reduce symptom burden and enhance well-being when adapted to individual needs, capacities, and contexts. The chapter concludes by outlining implications for inclusive, trauma-informed exercise programming and sets up the next phase of research: a broader quantitative survey to test these patterns in a larger veteran sample.