Compulsive exercise presented by Professor Sarah Egan
Perfectionism and a cognitive behavioural approach
Compulsive exercise—let’s take a closer look, and explore its connection to perfectionism. Clinical psychologist and researcher Professor Sarah Egan offers a clear, evidence-based exploration of compulsive exercise: what it is, how it operates, and why it persists. Drawing on cognitive behavioural theory, she examines how perfectionism drives compulsive movement, even in the face of injury, exhaustion, or loss of enjoyment. This practical, accessible session provides tools for practitioners and highlights the importance of collaborative, non-judgmental engagement.
Learn about:
• How perfectionism underpins compulsive exercise and can be a focus for change
• The cognitive-behavioural model linking compulsive exercise, eating disorders, body image, mood regulation, and perfectionism
• Why simple advice like "just rest" often falls short—and how to work toward meaningful behavioural change through curiosity and values-based approaches
The professional development covers:
• How compulsive exercise is measured
• A central model for compulsive exercise
• Relevance of compulsive exercise and perfectionism in eating disorders and athletes
• Screening and onward referral
Professor Sarah Egan, from Curtin University, has practiced as a Clinical Psychologist for over 25 years. Professor Egan is known for cognitive behavioural treatment of perfectionism. This work has included numerous publications on compulsive exercise in clinical eating disorder and community populations. Professor Egan’s work has included numerous publications on child and adolescent eating disorders, and transdiagnostic approaches to understanding and treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and depression. Professor Egan has received numerous competitive grants and has over 150 publications. Professor Egan has received awards for Research Translation, Consumer and Community Involvement in Research, and Inclusive and Consumer Oriented Research.