Physical exercise provides the most benefit when performed regularly. Whether you are exercising to build strength or endurance or to lose or maintain weight, a regular exercise schedule increases your chances of success. However, taking that commitment too far and becoming addicted to exercise can cause problems for your emotional and physical health. Exercise addiction can also be a symptom of a medical or psychological problem. If you have concerns, consult your doctor for advice about your exercise regimen.
Expert Insight
People with an addiction to exercise are also referred to as compulsive exercisers. Compulsive exercise is commonly associated with certain personality types, a history of disordered eating and psychological factors. In a study of exercise addiction in more than 1,000 U.K. adolescents, individuals addicted to exercise were more likely to have an eating disorder, according to an article in the February 2011 issue of the "International Journal of Eating Disorders."
Effects of Exercise Addiction
Potential side effects of exercise addiction include insomnia and bone fractures. Exercising boosts your metabolism and if you exercise near your usual bedtime, it is unlikely that you will be able to get to sleep easily. Exercising through injury or illness is another sign of exercise addiction. Even athletes will take time off from their workout regimen to recover if they are sick or hurt. Those who have an addiction to exercise may not be able to stop exercising to recuperate, explains Andy Fry, assistant director of fitness and wellness for Campus Recreational Sports at Indiana University Bloomington.
Eating Disorders
Compulsive, excessive exercising is a potential symptom of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. Patients with eating disorders commonly starve or purge themselves to avoid calorie absorption. Excessive exercise increases the calories burned, leading to further weight loss and potential malnutrition. When patients with eating disorders are treated as inpatients, access to exercise is limited both in terms of duration and intensity. Typically, recovering patients will be limited to short periods of walking each day.
Extraverted Personalities
According to a study published in the January 1999 issue of the "Journal of Psychology," extraversion and addiction may be linked. This study compared 12 exercise addicts, 12 non-addicted exercisers and 12 people who didn't exercise regularly. In general, people who exercised -- whether addictively or not -- were more extraverted than those who did not exercise. However, no measurable difference in extraversion was found between addicted and non-addicted exercisers.
References
- "Journal of Psychology"; Extraversion and Exercise Addiction; S. Mathers, et al.; January 1999
- "Psychiatric Clinics of North America"; Involuntary Treatment in Anorexia Nervosa; G.F. Russell; June 2001
- "International Journal of Eating Disorders"; Compulsive Exercise; H. Goodwin, et al.; February 2011
- Medical News Today; IU Health & Wellness: Foam Rollers, Over-Exercising And Core Work For Seniors; April 2011
