A Qualitative Study of Exercise Addiction among Iranian Women

Exercise addiction is an important phenomenon that has recently spread among Iranian girls and women. Therefore, the aim of this study was to qualitatively study exercise addiction among Iranian women with regard to managerial, biological and psychological aspects.

Research methodology was grounded theory, systematic approach. The sampling method was theoretical. The method of data analysis was continuous "questioning" and "comparison". After conducting 159 Semi-structured interviews during one year and reviewing literature; theoretical saturation was obtained.

The findings showed that there are four main categories related to Iranian women's exercise addiction, which are: (1) primary drivers, (2) personal motivations, (3) physical activity & (4) benefits of physical activity. The findings indicate that there are three levels of personal motivation. Primary drivers are primary stimuli of personal motivations. The personal motivations of a woman who is constantly physically active and personally experiences the bio-psycho-social benefits become more internalized over time, and finally it reaches the third level.

Although some psychologists have a negative view on sports addiction, considering the biological, psychological and social benefits of physical activity for Iranian women, sports managers should consider sports addiction as a "religious commitment", and seek its prevalence and development among Iranian women.