Do You Exercise Compulsively?

It’s already September!

The changing of the seasons is a reflective time for me. Fall always brings up a newer, more structured rhythm. With that, I’m contemplating my own rhythms and relationship to movement. 

Movement encompasses all types of activity involving the body from activities of daily living (e.g., bathing), to chores, leisure activities, fitness classes, sports, and more. My relationship with movement has been complicated at times and I’m wondering if you might feel the same way too?

How would you describe your relationship with movement? When I ask this question in my office I often hear responses like “complicated,” “non-existent,” “ torn/ambivalent,” and “compulsive.” I hear that. While there are physical, mental, and emotional benefits to moving our bodies, compulsive or militant physical activity can cause considerable harm to our overall health and well-being, negating any benefits.

How do I know if my relationship to movement is compulsive or risky?

If ANY of the following three descriptions resonate with you, it’s likely that your relationship to movement may be compulsive or runs the risk of harming your overall health and well-being:

#1- Inability to move your body as planned causes immediate and prolonged distress (e.g., feelings of guilt, anxiety, agitation, anger, depression, etc.)

#2- The type(s) of movement you engage in is/are repetitive or rigid in nature 

#3- You move your body despite feeling ill, physically exhausted, or being injured 

These criteria can be tough to read, especially if you’re thinking “OMG that’s me!!!!!!” Please know that you’re not alone. Compulsive exercise can lead to serious physical issues (e.g., injuries, bone loss, decreased hormone production, menstrual irregularities, fatigue, cardiac issues, fainting, etc). In addition to physical risks, compulsive exercise can take a toll on your mental health, relationships, and work/school performance, among other things. 

If you’re experiencing any of the physical symptoms or issues listed above, it’s important that you seek out the care of a medical professional and a mental health professional. Not sure where to start? I’ve got a blog post for that! Click here to learn more.

What if my relationship with movement is non-existent or I’m ambivalent about it?

Ambivalence is valuable information! If you feel torn about moving your body, I invite you to explore your ambivalence. There may be many reasons that moving your body isn’t the best choice for you at the moment.

We’re not obligated to participate in movement and can choose to divest from cultural messaging that values ability, athleticism, and a “no pain, no gain” mentality. Not everyone is athletic, not everyone enjoys all types of movement, and not every type of movement is a good fit for everyone- AND that’s okay!!!! It’s your body. You have the autonomy to choose to participate in movement, adapt movement to your needs, or forgo movement.

Moving your body safely

Safety is an important aspect to your relationship with movement. When I was in nursing school we had a guide called the “five rights (or 5 R’s) of medication administration” to help us safely administer medications to the right person, at the right time, in the right amount, etc. As I was thinking about the idea of safe movement, I remembered the “5 R’s” and thought we could adapt the general idea to safe movement. 

The “5 R’s of Moving Your Body”

These questions will help guide you when you’re considering your relationship to movement. In this context, the “right” in the “5 rights” refers to suitability (not correctness).

The Right Reason to move your body- What is the intention behind moving your body, and does this align with your values? Will movement support your overall health and well-being or take a toll on your health and well-being?

The Right Time in your life- Why is this season in your life the right time to explore movement? Are there reasons that this season in your life isn’t the right time to participate in movement or certain types of movement (e.g., you’re in recovery from an eating disorder)? Does your current schedule permit you to incorporate movement safely? 

The Right Activity(ies) that meet your needs- Do the activities you participate in align with your goals, values, interests, preferences, lifestyle, and budget? Can the activities be adapted to your unique needs? Will you feel energized/connected rather than depleted/disconnected?

The Right Gear or equipment to perform the activity safely- Do you have comfortable clothing, supportive footwear, mobility aids, equipment/mats, water/sports drinks, food, towels, reflective vests, safety alarms, tech, or anything else that you need for the activity(ies)? Consider aspects like weather, time of day, personal safety, transportation, and other environmental factors.

The Right Support to ensure your safety- Who’s support will you need in order to engage in movement safely? A partner or family member? A friend or friends? A personal trainer, instructor, or coach? Your therapist and treatment team? Having support matters! Supportive people can bolster your confidence, provide accountability, and enrich your experience.