Gym addiction is a real thing. It can be hard to tell whether you’re just a regular fitness enthusiast or if you’re addicted to the gym. Here are some signs that you might be addicted to the gym:.
You prioritize the gym over everything else
Do you skip social gatherings, work, or family events to go to the gym? If the gym is your top priority and you’re always rearranging your schedule or canceling plans to work out, it may be a sign of addiction.
You spend excessive amounts of time at the gym
Do you find your workouts getting longer and longer? If you’re spending more than two hours at the gym each day, it may be a sign that you’re addicted.
You feel anxious or depressed when you can’t make it to the gym
It’s normal to feel a little disappointed when you can’t make it to the gym, but if you experience extreme feelings of anxiety, depression or frustration when you miss a workout, it may be a sign of addiction.
You feel guilty after missing a workout
If your workouts are disrupted or you miss a day, do you feel guilty or like you’ve failed? Feeling guilty for missing a workout is a sign that fitness might be taking over your life.
Your workout routine interferes with your social life and relationships
Do you find that your workouts are dominating your social life and relationships? If the gym is causing conflicts with friends, family members or your partner, it may be a sign of addiction.
You’re constantly thinking about your next workout
Do you find yourself obsessing about your workout and constantly thinking about your next one? If you’re always thinking about your next workout and planning your day around it, it may be a sign of addiction.
You experience physical pain if you skip a gym session
Do you experience physical symptoms of withdrawal, such as headaches or muscle aches, when you skip a gym session? If you’re experiencing physical pain or discomfort from missing a workout, it may be a sign that you’re addicted.
Your self-esteem is tied to your gym performance
Do you feel good about yourself only when you’ve had a productive session at the gym? Does your self-esteem take a hit if your gym performance isn’t up to par? If your self-esteem is heavily tied to your gym performance, it may be a sign of addiction.
You continue to work out despite injury or exhaustion
Do you continue to work out despite physical exhaustion or injury? If you’re pushing yourself to the point of physical harm, it may be a sign of addiction.
Your diet is extremely restrictive
Do you follow an extremely strict diet or find your diet negatively impacts your social life? If your diet is restrictive to the point that it’s causing you to miss out on social events, it may be a sign of addiction.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to take a step back and assess your relationship with the gym. Remember that fitness is important, but so is your mental and physical health.