I think I have a toxic relationship with exercise

Rigidity: When the exercise follows a fixed schedule independently of the disease, injuries or other needs. “Rigidity goes against the idea of ​​health,” she says. “There is a difference between consistency and obsession.”

Compensation: Use training sessions to punish yourself to eat. If a slice of cake leads to four hours on the treadmill, it may be time to question your motivation.

Targeted body change: When training is used only to change specific domain such as abdomen or thighs. Tabrosals reminds us that the objective should always be health, not control.

Compulsivity: When exercise looks like an obligation or dependence rather than a choice.

Obsession with metrics: Overcomulation steps, calories or time spent passing can lead to fixation. “Let go of the figures,” she said. “What matters is evolving in a way that fits into your life. Something as simple as walking to work counts. “

A healthy approach to physical activity, she says, is the one that supports mental and physical well-being. It should come from respect and self -acceptance, not guilt. “The problem is that unhealthy exercise routines often make us feel bad when we don’t do it enough,” she adds.

Exercise should not look like a punishment

To help approach vigorexia and obsessive models, Sanitas experts recommend the following:

Set achieveable objectives: Focus on balance, not transformation. Avoid routines that attach to muscle gain or modification of appearance. Choose a complete movement of the body that supports general well-being.

Practice self -acceptance: Learn to appreciate your body for what it can do, not just what it looks like. This state of mind can be supported by practices such as yoga or meditation.

Rethink what the physical form means: Health includes mental, emotional and social well-being. When these are neglected, the pressure to meet the standards based on appearance is intensifying.

Prioritize joy and consistency: Choose activities that feel sustainable. The movement should be something that you are looking forward to. Whether swimming, dancing or a group class, doing what you like is the key.

If obsessive or restrictive behaviors persist, Buenavida recommends seeking professional support. Cognitivo-behavioral therapy can help tackle the thinking models that feed the distorted body image and excessive control.

Tabrès adds that the most important question is why we are doing the exercise. This answer often reveals the most. “Exercise should never look like a punishment,” she says. “If you recognize these models in yourself, try to work with a certified professional. Even if the exercise is currently like the problem, this can also be part of the solution. The movement is essential. He helps us live better. “