Exercise addiction: a literature review

Aim. This study aims to analyze the new data obtained over the past decade about the concept, mechanisms of development, concomitant factors and the frequency of exercise addiction (EA). Materials and methods. The following databases were used to find the relevant information: PubMed, Web of Science, E-library. All information sources were published between 2011 and 2020. Results. The definition of EA is based on the general components of behavioral addictions and describes the state when exercise becomes the most important part of a person's life. Over the past decade, scientific attention has been focused on functional and neurobiological EA-related changes in the reward and inhibitory control systems. These changes are associated with neurotransmitter imbalance that leads to hyperactivation of the dopaminergic system. It is likely that physical activity itself contributes to EA pathogenesis through the increase of the sensitivity of the reward system. However, these changes manifest themselves after a long period of training. Moreover, anabolic steroids can provoke imbalance in the neurotransmitter system, which is involved in the brain reward system, and thus promote EA development. Only two studies about the frequency of EA in Russia were found. The frequency of EA among Russian athletes (fitness) was higher than that of Danish and Hungarian athletes and did not differ from German athletes. The frequency of EA among Russian football players was higher compared to Danish athletes. Conclusion. The understanding of EA pathogenesis and EA impact on athletic performance requires further research.