Ricerc@Sapienza

In a society that perpetuates the strive for a perfect appearance, a fit body has become synonymous
with success, but simultaneously hard to achieve. This represents a fertile ground
for the development of Exercise Addiction (EA) alongside other disorders, such as Body
Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This study aims to explore the diffusion of EA in fitness settings
and related psychopathologies in the United Kingdom, Italy, Netherlands, Hungary.
Methods: A cross-sectional sample (N = 1711) was surveyed in gyms using the Exercise
Addiction Inventory (EAI), Appearance Anxiety Inventory (AAI) and Rosenberg’s Self Esteem
Scale (RSE) in addition to questions on use of fitness supplements. Results: Compulsive
exercise, appearance anxiety and low self-esteem were reported. 11.7% scored over the cut
off for EA. 5% was found above the clinical cut off for BDD. 39.8% used enhancing supplements
without medical consultation (95.5%). The latter group scored higher in both EAI and
AAI. The regression model revealed a strong association between the consumption of supplements
and the level of EA across the sample.
Conclusions: This study identified a high risk of EA, appearance anxiety and BDD amongst
participants. The previously- unexplored association between these disorders highlights the
need for informed and integrated responses targeting such vulnerable individuals.