Exercise Dependence In Team Sport Athletes And Fitness Activities Participants

PURPOSE: Although regular physical Activity (PA) has positive effects on mental and physical health, excessive exercise could have adverse effects. Exercise dependence (ED) is characterized by excessive training leading to physiological and psychological symptoms. Since excessive exercisers show higher ED risk compared to individuals with lower activity levels, this study aimed to investigate individual’s ED levels in team sport athletes and people engaging in fitness activities (FA). METHODS: Seventy adults (age: 29 ± 10.8 yrs) were allocated in two groups: Team Sport Group (TSG=36 team sport athletes) and FA Group (FAG=34 FA participants). The Exercise Dependence Scale (EDS-21), measuring on a 6-point Likert scale Withdrawal, Tolerance, Reductions in Other Activities, Lack of Control, Continuance, Intention Effects and Time dimensions, was used to assess ED. Mann-Whitney U-test was applied to verify differences (p<0.05) in EDS-21 dimensions in TSG compared to FAG. RESULTS: The results of Mann-Whitney U-test are show in Table 1. CONCLUSIONS: Although risk of ED (scores >14 for at least 3 of the 7 dimensions) was not found, TSG scored higher in five dimensions of the EDS-21, indicating a greater propensity to exhibit behaviors which could result in ED. Results could be explained by sport commitment of athletes, requiring large amounts of training to pursue outstanding sport performances, and social pressure, representing a risk for maladaptive exercise behaviors. Conversely, participants engaging in FA might prioritize personal enjoyment, well-being enhancement, and socialization. Findings suggest the need for careful monitoring and psychological support for athletes engaged in sports to prevent adverse effects on health of excessive exercise.