Finding a healthy balance in your fitness routine

In a culture of media obsession and a season of “beach bodies,” many people step up their exercise game in the warmer months. But when insecurities arise, some can turn to compulsive exercise to find relief.

Some use exercise to escape

Initial stressors such as anxiety and false-imaging can trigger a spike in exercising, This is similar to the start of many other compulsive behaviors.

Patients can adopt a ‘fix-it’ mentality when it comes to exercise. Though working out can be uncomfortable, not achieving the ‘ideal’ body image is more uncomfortable for individuals who suffer from body image insecurities.

Fire fueling fire

Many people who tend to exercise compulsively also suffer from eating disorders. “People can enter a vicious cycle to achieve what society tells them is a ‘healthy’ look,” . Exercise and diet are two objectives that people can control when looking for a way to manage anxiety and stress. The problem arises when individuals begin exercising for extended amounts of time each day, and restricting their eating habits.

How to get help

Some individuals turn to compulsive behaviors to try and cope with discomfort in their lives. So it can be hard to regulate their lifestyle to a balanced level,