How To Detect Vigorexia: Warning Signs In Young People Obsessed With Training

More and more teenagers are falling into the trap of vigorexia, an addictive disorder that transforms sports practice into an obsession with achieving an ideal physique. Recognized by the WHO since 2011 as a behavioral addiction, this mental health problem is fueled by the cult of appearance and the pressure of social media.

Vigorexia, also called muscle dysmorphia, manifests as a compulsion to train excessively and constantly.

It’s not just a matter of exercise addiction: sufferers lose control, increase the intensity of their routines even when experiencing physical or emotional pain, and prioritize training over their well-being. “Pleasure gives way to need,” warns Dr. Michaël Bisch, an addiction specialist at the Nancy Psychotherapy Center.

According to a Swedish study cited by RTL, between 2.8% and 3.6% of adolescent athletes show symptoms consistent with this addiction. Although figures are still limited, experts warn that the disorder is underdiagnosed and primarily affects young men.

A young generation caught between performance and dissatisfaction

Maxime and Jules, ages 15 and 17, frequently go to the gym intending to improve their physique and gain social acceptance. “We want to have a good body and be liked,” they tell RTL. However, what begins as a superficial motivation can lead to a dangerous cycle of constant dissatisfaction. “We always want more,” they confess.

Vigorexia is often associated with a distorted body image and low self-esteem. Kara Becker, a specialized therapist, explains that it’s a form of muscle dysmorphia: an altered perception of one’s body, focused on unattainable ideals of thinness and muscularity .

The impact of social media and the cult of the body

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube amplify the problem by exposing young people to artificial and demanding body models. Fitness influencers showcase sculpted bodies that often rely on digital filters, professional nutritional advice, or even substance use.

Jason Nagata, a pediatrician specializing in eating disorders, points out that this overexposure fuels body dissatisfaction. Frustrated by not meeting the standards they see online, some young people turn to unsafe or anabolic supplements. Dr. Hervé Martini insists that these products must be regulated and certified by labels like SPORT Protect to avoid serious risks.

Physical, mental, and social consequences of an invisible addiction

Beyond the physical aspect, vigorexia can lead to isolation, anxiety, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts. Carole, 49, trains seven hours a day without being able to stop. “It’s like a drug,” she tells France Info. Her addiction led to divorce and estrangement from her close circle.

The problem is exacerbated because society continues to perceive sport as an exclusively positive activity. “No one thinks it can cause harm,” says Sébastien, a physical education teacher interviewed by Le Monde. This view prevents the disorder from being detected early, especially because it is not yet formally included in hospital diagnostic tools.

Preventing vigorexia: education, detection, and multidisciplinary treatment

Aware of the rising number of cases, various institutions are implementing measures to prevent vigorexia. The University Hospital of Nantes, together with the Federal Institute of Behavioral Addictions, is promoting self-assessment questionnaires in sports centers. The French Federation of Addictions is working on educational campaigns aimed at schools and coaches.

Treatment includes psychological support, nutritional intervention, exercise adaptation, and a return to the joy of movement, free from obsessive goals. As Dr. Bisch concludes, it’s not about giving up sports, but rather breaking the compulsive cycle that turns it into a source of suffering.

Vigorexia is a real disorder that affects vulnerable adolescents in the midst of developing their identity. Talking about the problem, detecting it early, and supporting those who suffer from it can make the difference between healthy passion and emotional imprisonment.