Prevalence and Impact of Exercise Addiction among Individuals Attending Gyms in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia


Authors : Dr. Manar Saeed Ghaeb Alghamdi

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 3 - March


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4anbtkta

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar535

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Abstract : This systematic review aims to investigate the prevalence and influence of exercise addiction among persons who frequently go to gyms in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with an interest in its implications on mental health. Exercise addiction is a growing concern associated with several adverse psychological results, such as anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems. The current study considers exercise addiction a public health concern in light of Riyadh's emerging interest in gyms and fitness culture. This study conducted a critical review of the prevalence rate and related literature about the mental health outcomes of the problem at issue among users of gyms. These results indicate a strong association of excessive exercise with adverse psychological effects and, importance of early intervention and prevention. This review contributes to the literature by underlining some of the social and cultural factors affecting exercise addiction in Saudi Arabia.

Keywords : Exercise Addiction, Mental Health Implications, Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors, Perfectionism, Body Dysmorphia and Psychological Distress.

References :

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This systematic review aims to investigate the prevalence and influence of exercise addiction among persons who frequently go to gyms in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with an interest in its implications on mental health. Exercise addiction is a growing concern associated with several adverse psychological results, such as anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems. The current study considers exercise addiction a public health concern in light of Riyadh's emerging interest in gyms and fitness culture. This study conducted a critical review of the prevalence rate and related literature about the mental health outcomes of the problem at issue among users of gyms. These results indicate a strong association of excessive exercise with adverse psychological effects and, importance of early intervention and prevention. This review contributes to the literature by underlining some of the social and cultural factors affecting exercise addiction in Saudi Arabia.

Keywords : Exercise Addiction, Mental Health Implications, Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors, Perfectionism, Body Dysmorphia and Psychological Distress.

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