Eating Disorders Support Group

Eating disorders are marked by an obsessive need to control the intake and/or purging of food. This community is dedicated to those struggling on the road to recovery. Join to discuss your experience with others and find support. Get advice, ask questions, and meet others who are going through similar struggles.

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tuxedomck 01/12/2016

I have been addicted to exercise excessively in the past, and I feel my self going towards that path again. So I'm asking, how much is too much exercise. I guess I don't really know what a healthy amount is. Also I have become addicted to my fitbit (which probably wasn't a great idea on purchasing), but according to that what is the average number of steps one takes in a day. Or how many should I be getting. I feel like everyday I try to beat what I had the day before.

I just need some perspective...

forestfreek 01/12/2016

Hi tuxedomck!

Yep, you are probably right about the fitbit not being a good idea for an exercise addict to purchase. My advice? Ditch it. Not sure how much those things cost but either sell it or give it away. It will only feed into your compulsions (scales are the same. GOD I HATE SCALES!!!! Only doctors should have them. They should be out-lawed for everyone else!! LOL. Ok, end of rant:)
YOU know how much exercise it too much for you and since you are here asking, you likely know the answer to your own question. Is it interfering with other aspects of your life? Are you neglecting other areas of your health/life to participate in exercise? How do you feel if the circumstances arise that you can't exercise? How much time do you spend a day exercising? If you feel like it is becoming a problem again then likely it is.

Do you have any type of support like on-going therapy or a support group?
Feel free to post here as often as you like. We are all very supportive and encouraging here:)))
HUGS
Jen

kathywonders 01/12/2016

I tend to agree with Forestfreek - gadgets that give us numerical feedback can become controlling and drive us to do more than our body would want. Can you learn to listen to your body? Exercise when it feels like it and give it the rest it needs too?

I think "the experts" tend to talk about 30 minutes walking per day being beneficial for your health. And that type and amount of daily exercise is fine. I wouldt worry about the exact number of steps. Heavy workouts, whether aerobic or weight training need a day or two of rest afterwards. If you feel you must be doing something try stretching or foam rolling!

tuxedomck 01/12/2016

Jen- Thanks for your advice and common sense. I admitted the fact that I have an activity tracker to my therapist today...that didn't go over so well, but now it's out there in the open. I also spoke to her about my current exercise routine and how it as well as restricting and purging are starting to take over my life again.

Needless to say i really don't want to go back to therapy on Thursday- I know it's not going to be a fun session.

THOUGH....tonight I was extremely triggered tonight but so far I have been holding strong.

forestfreek 01/13/2016

Hey, that's GREAT that you took that step with your therapist and opened up about all of the other things that have been going on. I think that took a lot of courage and strength. And fantastic with being able to deal with your triggers. Sometimes just knowing why we are triggered can help us to find better coping mechanisms.

I'm sure you don't want to go to your appointment Thursday, however, make sure you follow through and go. It's likely going to be a very important session for you:))

I think you are doing fantastic!!!!

kathywonders 01/13/2016

I can understand that your next therapy session will be tough. But your therapist is there to help you - painful though it may be at times. Youll get through it though. Let us know how it goes.

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