What is dysfunctional exercise?

Dysfunctional exercise describes an unhealthy relationship with exercise resulting in negative physical and/or psychological distress

• Engaging in dysfunctional exercise is one of the strongest predictors of eating disorder relapse, second to social isolation.

• Often the first presenting and last remaining symptom of an eating disorder.

• The relationship between dysfunctional exercise and eating disorders is based on the quality, not quantity, of the activity.

• Up to 81% of individuals with an eating disorder engage in dysfunctional exercise.

• Engaging in dysfunctional exercise with a comorbid eating disorder may contribute to harmful physical and psychological outcomes as well as poorer sporting performance.

• Providing patients with safe movement support and education may improve mental and physical eating disorder symptomology, treatment compliance and long-term prognosis.