You know about addiction to drugs and cigarettes, and you’ve most likely heard of gambling and internet compulsions◆, alcoholics, and hoarders◆, but here’s one you may not be cognizant of: fitness addicts. We’re not just talking about avid◆ fitness buffs◆ in this case. __1__ In short, even though it’s not officially recognized by the American Psychiatric◆ Association as a disorder, fitness addiction bears many of the hallmarks of a mental disorder.
Fitness addicts are intensely focused on exercising and do it to such an excess that it hurts them physically and mentally. Like junkies◆ hooked on heroin◆, people dependent on exercise go through withdrawal symptoms◆ if they haven’t had their regular exercise fix. __2__ While people addicted to working out don’t have the yellow-stained teeth of cigarette smokers or the smell of whiskey on the breath of an alcoholic, there are other telltale signs◆. __3__ Also, their social lives may spiral downwards due to the excessive amount of time they spend at the gym.
So, how to avoid fitness addiction? __4__ An instructor◆ can also help you exercise appropriately. If you know someone with this problem, encourage them to seek professional help, which may include consultations with a medical doctor and a psychologist◆. __5__ Recognizing the danger, seeking help, and taking steps to control their compulsions are important steps in recovering from any addiction.
(A) Exercising with a friend may help because your pal can remind you when you are working out too much.
(B) People who feel pressure to stay in shape are at risk of developing fitness addiction.
(C) These hard-core exercisers are identified by their uncontrollable urge to work out no matter how much pain they feel.
(D) Fitness addicts may suffer from frequent injuries due to their obsession.
(E) Once they get the expert help they need, fitness addicts have a better chance of ridding themselves of this problem.
(F) Similarly, just as people with an obsessive-compulsive disorder have little or no control over their behavior, these fitness fanatics can’t stop themselves from going overboard.
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