The Hidden Struggle: When Exercise Becomes an Addiction
Luke Tyburski, a former professional footballer and endurance athlete, faced depression and exercise addiction after his football career ended. He undertook extreme challenges, including swimming from Africa to Europe and cycling through Spain, using these pursuits as an escape from unaddressed personal issues.
His addiction manifested as secret training sessions, crippling insomnia used as a pretext for "midnight marathons," and binge eating to prolong exercise-induced highs. Despite these behaviors, his weight and performance remained consistent, making his addiction difficult for others to detect.
"His addiction manifested as secret training sessions, crippling insomnia used as a pretext for 'midnight marathons,' and binge eating to prolong exercise-induced highs."
Understanding Exercise Addiction
An Unrecognized Disorder
Exercise addiction is not officially recognized as a psychiatric disorder in key manuals like the DSM-5 or ICD-10, meaning there are no standardized diagnostic criteria. However, studies suggest that 0.3-0.5% of the general population and 3-9% of regular exercisers may experience exercise dependence.
Many researchers believe it functions similarly to substance addictions neurologically, involving dysregulation of motivational pathways in the brain.
The Central Focus
Kanny Sanchez, an addictions therapist, notes that exercise addiction often becomes the central focus of a person's life, leading to training through injuries and withdrawal symptoms when unable to exercise. He emphasizes that while exercise is a beneficial stress-management tool, relying on it as the only tool can lead to addiction.
Case Studies and Associated Conditions
Micheál Costello's Journey
Micheál Costello, a triathlete, was diagnosed with depression and atypical anorexia during the pandemic. His psychiatrist indicated he would have met the criteria for exercise addiction if it were formally recognized. Costello's behaviors included excessive daily exercise on a bike and skipping, accompanied by underfuelling.
His recovery involved therapy, antidepressants, and later, finding a healthier relationship with exercise through triathlon, which requires a balanced approach to training and nutrition.
The Link to Eating Disorders
Exercise addiction is frequently linked with eating disorders; up to 48% of individuals with eating disorders may show symptoms of exercise addiction. This connection can stem from body dissatisfaction, compensatory behaviors, or using exercise to cope with unwanted emotions. By overriding the nervous system and generating numbness, exercise provides an escape, alongside its endorphin release.
Recognizing the Signs
Discipline vs. Compulsion
Distinguishing discipline from compulsion can be challenging for athletes. Screening tools like the Exercise Dependence Scale include statements similar to principles of progressive overload.
Subtle signs of compulsive exercise, according to sports and exercise psychologist Stacey Fensome, include:
- Struggling with rest days
- Prioritizing exercise over other activities
- Inability to sit still
- Choosing to walk everywhere
- Using a standing desk
The intention behind the exercise—whether it's to avoid distress or genuinely for physical activity—is a key differentiator.
Social Validation and Hidden Dysfunction
Unlike other addictions, exercise addiction is often socially validated. People may receive praise for intense training, and their physique might align with societal ideals, making it easier to hide dysfunction.
Author Margo Steines, who spent seven to nine hours daily in various gyms during her addiction, described how her "jacked and juicy" appearance led to compliments rather than concern, despite neglecting other life areas and experiencing injuries.
Impact and Recovery
The Damaging Effects
Exercise addiction can be as damaging as other addictions, potentially leading to chronic injuries, hormonal disruption, burnout, low energy, low mood, and social withdrawal. Psychologically, it can create a mental "prison" where self-worth is dictated by exercise, leading to guilt and shame when workouts are missed.
A Complex Path to Healing
Recovery is complex because complete elimination of exercise is generally not the goal. Options include rehab facilities, therapy, and peer support.
- Luke Tyburski has since "unofficially retired" from extreme adventuring due to injuries, finding gratitude in smaller activities.
- Margo Steines's myalgic encephalomyelitis (chronic fatigue syndrome) has naturally tempered her drive to over-exercise, leading to a physical recovery while mental recovery continues.
- Micheál Costello emphasizes the importance of open communication about "psychological niggles" related to exercise, akin to discussing physical injuries.