Table 2 Definition of compulsive exercise
Item | M | SD | Mode | % of panellists showing agreement | Consensus achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Compulsive exercise is common in individuals who have an eating disorder | 4.61 | 0.50 | 5 | 100 | Yes (Round 2) |
Compulsive exercise is a complex and multifaceted eating disorder symptom | 4.00 | 0.87 | 4 | 94 | Yes (Round 3) |
Compulsive exercise is the result of a negative reinforcement process where an emotion perceived as aversive is alleviated by engaging in the behaviour | 3.89 | 0.83 | 4 | 88 | Yes (Round 2) |
Compulsive exercise is a means to compensate for energy intake | 4.33 | 0.67 | 4 | 89 | Yes (Round 2) |
Individuals with an eating disorder can have obsessive thoughts about exercise without engaging in compulsive exercise behaviours | 4.24 | 0.75 | 4 | 94 | Yes (Round 3) |
When unable to engage in compulsive exercise, individuals often experience distress or feelings such as guilt, anger or shame | 4.72 | 0.58 | 5 | 94 | Yes (Round 2) |
People who exercise compulsively are rarely satisfied with the amount or intensity of physical activity they engage in | 4.24 | 0.83 | 5 | 76 | Near (Round 3) |
Compulsive exercise impairs an individual’s daily routine, occupational functioning and/or social relationships | 4.33 | 0.84 | 5 | 89 | Yes (Round 2) |
Individuals with an eating disorder tend to prioritise compulsive exercise over other activities | 4.24 | 0.44 | 4 | 100 | Yes (Round 3) |
Compulsive exercise can be seen as a maladaptive coping mechanism | 4.50 | 0.51 | 4 | 100 | Yes (Round 2) |
Individuals who engage in compulsive exercise are more prone to injury | 4.47 | 0.87 | 5 | 88 | Yes (Round 3) |
Individuals with an eating disorder who engage in compulsive exercise generally do not consume enough calories to nourish themselves adequately | 3.94 | 0.75 | 4 | 82 | Near (Round 3) |