EXERCISE ADDICTION IN FITNESS AND TAEKWONDO ATHLETES

Abstract

Exercise addiction is a significant risk factor in all sports disciplines. The aim of this study was to compare the exercise addiction levels of fitness and taekwondo athletes. Exercise addiction scale and personal information form were used in the study. A total of 81 athletes, including 37 fitness (female=29, male=8) and 44 taekwondo (female=21, male=23) athletes, participated in the study. In the comparison, regardless of gender, statistically significant differences were found in favor of taekwondo athletes in exercise addiction and its subscales (p<0.05). In addition, in the comparison of exercise addiction according to gender, it was found to be significant against female taekwondo athletes (p<0.05). In conclusion, it was determined that fitness and taekwondo athletes were at risk of exercise addiction. It was concluded that differences in sport branch, exercise orientation goals and exercise participation behaviors may cause athletes to face the risk of exercise addiction. It was recommended that coaches should follow the athletes regularly according to the exercise addiction criteria and take necessary precautions.