Compulsive Exercise

Exercise is widely recognised as an important component of a healthy lifestyle, offering numerous physical and mental health benefits. However, when the drive to exercise becomes excessive and rigid, it can shift from being beneficial to harmful. Compulsive exercise is a behavioural pattern in which people feel an uncontrollable urge to exercise, often at the expense of their physical health, social relationships, and overall well-being.

What is Compulsive Exercise?

Compulsive exercise is characterised by a persistent and excessive need to engage in physical activity, often driven by anxiety, guilt, or a desire to control weight and body image. Unlike healthy exercise habits, which allow for flexibility and rest, compulsive exercisers feel compelled to work out regardless of injury, fatigue, or other life commitments. This issue is commonly associated with eating disorders including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, though it can also occur independently.

Signs and Symptoms of Compulsive Exercise

Recognising the signs of compulsive exercise is important for early intervention. Some key indicators include:

Exercising despite injury, illness, or extreme fatigue
Feeling distressed, anxious, or guilty if you’re unable to work out
Rigid exercise routines which override other commitments
Using exercise primarily to compensate for food intake or weight concern
A loss of enjoyment in physical activity; it feels like an obligation rather than a choice
Exercising in secret or lying about the amount of exercise performed
Increased risk of injuries due to overtraining

The Psychological and Physical Impact

Compulsive exercise can have significant psychological and physical consequences. Psychologically, people may experience heightened anxiety, depression, and irritability, particularly if they are unable to exercise. The behaviour is often linked to high personal achievement standards and perfectionism, with exercise becoming a way to manage emotions or control body shape.

Physically, over-exercising can lead to chronic injuries such as stress fractures, joint damage, and muscle strains. It can also contribute to hormonal imbalances, weakened immunity, and, in extreme cases, heart complications due to excessive strain on the body. For people with eating disorders, compulsive exercise can exacerbate malnutrition and increase the risk of severe medical complications.

Why Does Compulsive Exercise Develop?

Compulsive exercise can develop for a variety of reasons, often linked to underlying psychological pressures. Factors that contribute to this behaviour include:

Diet culture and societal beauty standards: The pervasive message that fitness equates to worthiness can push individuals towards excessive exercise
Perfectionism and control: Some people use exercise as a way to maintain control over their bodies and lives, particularly in times of stress or uncertainty
Association with eating disorders: Many people struggling with disordered eating use exercise as a compensatory behaviour when they are uncomfortable with their eating or weight
Endorphin dependence: The ‘runner’s high’ or feeling of euphoria post-exercise can lead some to seek that sensation compulsively

Seeking Support and Finding Balance

Overcoming compulsive exercise requires a shift in mindset, moving from rigid control to a more balanced and flexible approach to movement. Here are some ways to regain a healthy relationship with exercise:

Work with a professional: Therapists and medical professionals with experience in eating disorders and exercise dependence can provide guidance and support
Consult a Dietitian: An Accredited Practising Dietitian can assist you to ensure your nutritional needs are met and exercise is not being used to compensate for food intake. They can also provide education on energy balance, recovery nutrition, and eating patterns to support a healthier relationship with both food and movement
Challenge exercise rules: Gradually introduce rest days and explore forms of movement that are enjoyable rather than obligatory
Address underlying emotions: Developing alternative coping strategies for stress and anxiety can reduce reliance on exercise as an emotional outlet
Reframe the purpose of movement: Instead of viewing exercise as a way to control weight or shape, focus on its benefits for energy, mood, and overall well-being

Compulsive exercise is a serious but often overlooked issue that can significantly impact both physical and mental health. Recognising the signs and seeking help is an important step towards restoring balance and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with compulsive exercise, the Psychologists and Dietitians at Mind Body Well can assist.

MEDICARE AND PRIVATE HEALTH CLAIMS FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPY

You may be eligible to claim rebates for Psychological Therapy if you have:

A referral and Mental Health Care Plan completed by your Doctor, or
Private Heath Insurance which includes Psychological Counselling as part of your extras cover.

Please note – we do not Bulk Bill. All sessions will incur an out of pocket fee, and full payment is to be made on the day of your session. If you are eligible for a Medicare or Private Health Insurance rebate, you will be provided with a claimable receipt which you can then use to make your claim (we don’t process the claims in-house).

Our Melbourne Practice

At Mind Body Well we provide a supportive and safe environment for people to . Our team of experienced psychologists and dietitians can work collaboratively to help you make change and achieve your goals. We offer support for people experiencing a range of issues including body image concerns, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.