Of course we all know the many health benefits of breaking a sweat and getting a good amount of exercise. However, like many things, too much of a good thing can become a bad thing. So how do you know exactly how much is too much? That seems to be unclear to many people in terms of exercise because it’s very easy to not get enough. Too much exercise can actually cause more harm to our physical and mental health than good. This is the dark side to any addiction. So how do we can the signs before the damage is already done? Here are some signs that you might be addicted to exercise.
- Exercise becomes top priority:
Making sure you’re moving your body and getting your blood pumping should definitely be one of your top priorities, but not your main priority. When you’re canceling your plans to get in a workout, that’s not a good sign. You should reconsider your motives for working out, because there could be other unhealthy factors that push you to hit the gym.
Relationships and connections in our lives are important. Whether we’re neglecting them for exercise or exercising because of them, the focus should be on working on that social aspect in your life.
- Exercising because of what you ate:
When you’re trying to burn more calories to compensate for something you ate, that’s an unhealthy relationship with exercise. There are other contributing factors to weight other than food. All foods can be a part of a healthy diet in moderation. If we view food equally, then there would be no compensating for particular things. The real problem is indulging excessively.
- Pushing yourself regardless of exhaustion, injury, or illness:
People motivate themselves and each other a little too far. “Push it, push it! Don’t give up! Don’t quit just because you’re tired!” When you’re feeling fatigued or ill, this is your body telling you to stop, it’s had enough. These are cues to stop what we’re doing to rest and recover. Otherwise, we’re pushing ourselves further into a more damaging zone. Rest is important to exercise because that’s when the body repairs and replenishes itself – so take this time!
If you think you or someone you love might be addicted to exercise, please contact Crownview Medical Group to speak with a medical professional who can give you advice and look into the deeper motivations that push you push yourself harder.
Resources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/mindful-musings/201510/3-signs-your-relationship-exercise-is-unhealthy
