Read more: Health
BACKGROUND: The push for exercise and staying in shape has become a national focal point. Rarely can you turn on the television or flip through a magazine without seeing an advertisement for a diet supplement or tips on how you can tone that tummy in time for the summer weather. But for some, exercise can be bad thing. "I knew I was an exercise addict because if I didn't get up at a certain time of day to get that 12 miles in, it literally ruined my day," recovered exercise addict Valerie Gustin says.
SYMPTOMS OF ADDICTION: Exercise addicts can come in all shapes and sizes, and unfortunately there is not a one-size fits all description. Here are some characteristics of exercise addicts:
· They are often unhappy with their body
· They work out seven days a week, often for hours at a time
· They will stop exercising for months at a time, only to start again
· They will continue even if in extreme pain
RISKY BUSINESS: The ethical dilemma arises when gyms see a potential problem in an exercise addict but don't want to lose a client. Some trainers will say something, while others might be reluctant. Because exercise is considered healthy, it can be a fine line between a person who exercises a lot, and a true addict.
BREAKING THE ADDICTION: Like any addiction, acknowledgement is the first step. Other steps often include:
· Staying away from exercise for one month
· Taking up meditating, or focusing on relaxing
· Building self-esteem
· Recognizing feelings by changing phrases like "I think," to "I feel"
CAUSE OF ADDICTION: While there is no known cause for exercise addiction, some health professionals speculate it could be in part due to the addiction of the natural endorphins that are released when exercising. People who are prone to being obsessive-compulsive may also be more likely to have an exercise addiction. Some studies suggest 75 percent of women with an eating disorders also are addicted to exercise.
