You know that exercising offers countless benefits – some you notice on a daily basis (looser jeans) and some you don’t (a healthier heart). Just because you can’t see something, doesn’t mean it isn’t there. We’ve been programmed to believe that all addictions are related to unhealthy habits. So, naturally, you wouldn’t suspect anyone to have an exercise addiction. But if you knew the signs to look for, you’d see how too much of a good thing turns bad.

People who exercise can be categorized into one of these three tiers of intensity: 1) the regular exerciser, 2) the highly committed exerciser and 3) the addicted exerciser, who takes their activity level to the extreme. The lines may get blurry at times. Luckily, these warning signs will help clear your head and make sure you – or someone you know – don’t cross into dangerous territory.
Warning signs and solutions
Warning: You’re not spending your time wisely
Let’s say your workout started with a one-hour spin class, but then you stuck around for the 30-minute abs session (you’re already sweaty, so why not?). Now you’re in the mood for strength training, so you meander over to the weight rack. A perfectly fitting cardio workout has turned into a two- or three-hour date with the dumbbells. If this has gradually become a regular occurrence, it may be time to scale back.
Solution: Enjoying exercise so much that you want to keep doing it is great! But really what that means is you’ve graduated to a new kind lifestyle. Your body is itching for a routine, or a bonafide fitness program. If you can’t afford a personal trainer, ask a fit friend to help plan your workouts. Remember, a quality workout is most important – not how much time you spend in the gym or at the track. Having a friend or workout buddy can help keep your efforts focused and efficient
Warning: You haven’t taken a day off
There’s no rest for the wicked, right? In theory, it sounds good to never take a day off, because it gives the impression that you’re truly dedicated. Like a little kid with perfect attendance, you may even feel proud that you’ve not skipped a workout in over a month. But your body is saying please rest! Fatigue will start to set in, causing your performance to fall flat.
Solution: Find a healthy balance. Instead of spending hours working out every single day, dedicate some time to other interests that will ultimately enrich your life – think volunteering, painting, writing or opting in to karaoke on Tuesday nights. Plan a rest day each week and enjoy another activity, hobby or even just a cup of coffee with a friend. Your body will thank you for allowing it to recharge the mind, body and spirit.
Warning: You’re injured…again!
Perfect attendance can also lead to injury due to overuse or poor form. People who may be addicted to working out will continue to exercise even if they are in pain or feeling sick. This is counterintuitive, of course, because your body needs time to repair and rebuild muscles. It can’t go through that process if you’re constantly stressing it. Pushing yourself when you’re sick or injured will only do more harm than good.
Solution: REST, REST, REST – that’s the only solution! You won’t be back to 100% — and may even relapse – if you don’t give your body time to heal. It may take a few days or a couple weeks. Accept the situation for what it is and realize that you’re doing this to feel better for the long haul.
Warning: You’re too moody to be around
Feeling like your entire day is ruined because you can’t work out could be a big red flag. Often people may feel bad about missing a workout they were looking forward to. But harnessing anxiety, anger, sadness or beating yourself up over it, is an extreme response.
Solution: So what if this isn’t your planned rest day? It can be! Sometimes you can’t control the course of the day, but you can always control how you respond to the changes. You’re strong enough to roll with the punches. Simply take a few deep breaths and repeat a soothing mantra that will erase any anxious feelings. Remember: your body needs – and deserves – a break.
Warning: You’re counting calories like it’s your job
Being aware of your caloric intake is important. Being consumed all day long is a problem. Constantly fretting over the ins and outs of your consumption will not only drive you crazy, but your loved ones may eventually snap at you. If calorie counting interferes with your day-to-day life, it has become an unhealthy obsession.
Solution: Put your focus on eating healthy foods. The body needs protein, carbs and fats to stay fit and strong. Spend Sunday afternoons preparing healthy meals for the week ahead, along with portable protein snacks and your daily vitamin supplement. Being able to reach for nutritious meals with calories your body needs is a healthy lifestyle to embrace.