Exercise: know when you're addicted - Ask the experts: answers to your questions from the leaders in natural medicine - Brief Article

I work out five days a week, and on the days that I don't, I feel depressed and irritable. Could I be addicted to exercise? What should I do about it?

ADRIANE FUGH-BERMAN, M.D., REPLIES: A compulsion to exercise all the time can indicate a psychological disorder that's similar to an eating disorder. However, it's difficult to say if you're addicted without more information. It depends on how much you're exercising. Signs of excess include exercising recreationally for several hours a day or when you're ill or injured.

If you're exercising a reasonable amount, relax. Lots of people become accustomed to their regular aerobics class, early-morning jog, or tennis game, and for good reason: Not only does exercise help prevent cardiovascular disease, but several surveys found lower rates of depression among people who exercise. Other studies compared physical activity with antidepressant drugs and psychotherapy and found that exercise just as effectively reduced depression.

One study compared aerobic exercise (brisk walking, dancing, or jogging) to relaxation training (progressive muscle relaxation) and found that depression scores in both groups were significantly reduced.

Try This

To improve your mood when you can't work up a sweat, practice a mild, nonaerobic activity like stretching or gentle yoga.

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