Exercise addiction. Presented by Elizabeth Hewett AEP
When movement becomes harmful.
Can there be too much of a good thing? A resounding ‘Yes’ when we consider individuals who experience a lack of control in their exercise participation causing negative consequences for physical, emotional and social health. AEP Lis Hewett guides us through the current research with a focus on defining and understanding the phenomena. We explore how characteristics of Exercise Addictions are comparable with other addictions, particularly the presence of dependence and compulsion. To deepen our understanding, she compares and differentiates it from Secondary Exercise Dependence (which is associated with eating disorders).
Limitations in the research such as heterogeneity in screening tools and population samples exist, and evidence for treatment approaches remain limited. There is more work to be done!
So where does this leave us as movement professionals? As a conservative approach we ought to be cognizant of who is hearing our ‘health promotion’ messages. Our community is comprised of personalities who are vulnerable to addictive behaviours: perfectionism, anxious and obsessive traits tend to be risk factors. Exercise Physiologist’s play a key role in supporting individuals engage with movement in a more flexible and life enhancing manner. Practical and behavioural support around moderation, and onward psychology referral, are both relevant. Liz offers that developing trustworthy relationships with clients is also a valid pathway towards offering meaningful support.
Elizabeth Hewett is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Strength & Conditioning Coach and Pilates teacher with over 20 years’ experience. She has worked across the many facets of the rehabilitation and fitness industries, from starting out as a gym instructor and personal trainer, to the fledging exercise physiology and Pilates professions in the early 2000s. Her passion and experience in dance led her to working at The Australian Ballet School for eight years, before establishing her own private practice in Fitzroy, Melbourne.
Her primary areas of interest include musculoskeletal pain, dancers and athletes who are recovering from eating disorders and disordered exercise. Liz is a frequent presenter and educator, as well as a former President and committee member for the Australian Pain Management Association.