Prevalence of risk for exercise dependence in rock climbers and mountaineers

Background: Research on physical activity has extensively shown that regular exercise produces many physical and psychological benefits. However, excessively practiced physical activities can also have negative effects, both physical and psychological. One of them is the risk of becoming dependent on exercise, similar to substances such as drugs or alcohol. Most studies on exercise dependence have focused on runners and strength athletes. Aim of the study: This study aimed to explore the prevalence of exercise dependence in climbers. Material and methods: A group of 272 climbers (32.3 ± 8.7 years old) participated in the study. They were divided into three groups: sport/rock climbers (59.6%), boulderers (30.2%), and mountaineers (10.3%). Data was collected using the Exercise Dependence Scale (EDS). Results: Based on EDS scores, 44 climbers (16.2%) were classified as at-risk for exercise dependence, 183 (67.3%) as nondependent-symptomatic, and 45 (16.5%) as asymptomatic. Competitive and non-competitive climbers significantly differed in tolerance, and boulderers scored significantly higher than rock climbers and mountaineers. Conclusions: Climbers are at risk of developing exercise dependence, especially those who participate in climbing competitions and who are boulderers. However, more research is needed to further characterize this phenomenon in the climbing community.