Exercise Addiction

Question 1

Exercise addiction definition

Answer 1

Characterised by dependence on physical activity and withdrawal symptoms if participation is prevented/denied.

Question 2

Physiological symptoms of exercise addiction

Answer 2

1. Muscle twitching

2. Fatigue

Question 3

Psychological symptoms of exercise addiction

Answer 3

1. Anxiety
2. Irritability
3. Guilt
4. Gloated feeling
5. Anger

Question 4

Withdrawal symptoms

Answer 4

Withdrawal symptoms are experienced 24-36 hours without exercise BUT only experienced if exercise is prevented (injury, work, family commitments).

Question 5

Primary exercise addiction

Answer 5

• used to improve performance
• although dieting & weight loss may occur this is not the main goal
• occurs more in men than women

Question 6

Secondary exercise addiction

Answer 6

• exercising is a symptom of other pathological disorders

- exercising to lose weight or compensate for binge eating if person has anorexia/bulimia

Question 7

Those at risk of developing exercise addiction

Answer 7

• low self-esteem
• agreeableness
• high perfectionism
• neuroticism
• extraversion

Question 8

Diagnosis of exercise addiction

Answer 8

If the person experiences three or more of the following in a 12 month period:

• tolerance
• withdrawal symptoms
• loss of control
• intention effects
• time
• reduction in other activities
• continuance

Question 9

Tolerance

Answer 9

The person increases their exercise levels in order to get the same effects (the ‘buzz’) or feel a sense of accomplishment

Question 10

Loss of control

Answer 10

Unsuccessful attempts to reduce exercise levels/cease exercising for a certain period of time

Question 11

Time

Answer 11

The time spent recovering from, preparing for and engaging in exercise increases

Question 12

Continuance

Answer 12

The person continues to exercise despite knowing that the activity is creating/exacerbating problems

Question 13

Treatment of exercise addiction

Answer 13

1. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
2. Work with fitness professionals who are familiar with exercise addiction to relearn what moderate levels of physical activity looks like

Question 14

Prevention of exercise addiction

Answer 14

Educate health professionals, coaches, teachers to identify the signs of exercise addiction early before it becomes excessive, irreversible or injury occurs.

Question 15

How does CBT help exercise addiction?

Answer 15

Helps patients to manage their mood and emotional & cognitive issues that contribute towards exercise addiction.