A recent study finds that young men who struggle to adapt thoughts and behaviors around body image and exercise are much more likely to develop unhealthy exercise habits, especially when chasing muscle. The findings, published in Eating Behaviors and summarized by researchers at a leading university, highlight a psychological factor that may help explain why some men in Thailand and around the world develop dangerous exercise routines.
The research is particularly relevant in Thailand, where global ideals of muscularity and fitness have gained traction through social media, fitness influencers, and the booming supplement industry. Local gyms in Bangkok and other cities report a surge in men pursuing intense routines, often inspired by images of ideal physiques seen in popular culture. This trend raises important questions about mental health and wellbeing for Thailand’s youth, and the study offers timely insight.
The study involved 243 male undergraduates and examined two main traits: the drive for muscularity—the strong motivation to achieve a lean, muscular body—and cognitive inflexibility, or difficulty adapting one’s thinking when circumstances change. Using standardized questionnaires, researchers found that men who were highly inflexible about body shape, weight, food, or exercise and who also had a strong drive to be muscular were much more likely to engage in dysfunctional exercise. This includes training excessively despite injury, sticking rigidly to routines when inappropriate, or letting exercise dominate life to the detriment of wellbeing.
Lead researchers summarized the findings: domain-specific cognitive inflexibility amplifies the risk of dysfunctional exercise in men with a strong drive for muscularity. The results suggest that interventions targeting cognitive inflexibility could help mitigate this risk. In other words, the issue is not the desire to be muscular itself, but the inability to adapt fitness plans in a healthy and flexible way.
Understanding cognitive inflexibility is particularly important in the Thai context. While Thai culture values consideration for others and pragmatism, global media exposure can promote rigid standards of male attractiveness and discipline. This combination may foster inflexible attitudes toward body image and fitness among Thai youth, potentially leading to anxiety-driven or obsessive exercise patterns. Experts caution that psychological rigidity, when paired with high motivation for muscle-building, may push individuals toward patterns that harm both body and mind.
The study used three assessment tools to gain nuanced insights: a measure of the drive for muscularity, a questionnaire on eating disorder flexibility, and an exercise dependence scale. Importantly, it was not general stubbornness but specific inflexibility about food, weight, and exercise that increased risk. For example, a student who believes there is only one “right” body type may struggle to adapt when tired or injured, pushing toward harmful exercise patterns.
Dysfunctional exercise has been linked with higher injury risk, anxiety, depression, and disorders such as muscle dysmorphia—an issue observed by Thai health professionals in urban clinics. In competitive Bangkok schools and universities, counselors report cases of students driven by an obsession with unrealistic physical ideals. Medical professionals warn about “exercise addiction,” noting rises in injuries, sleep disturbances, and extreme dietary restriction. A Bangkok-based clinical psychologist notes that some young men push through pain or avoid rest because they fear missing workouts, misconstruing pain as progress.
The researchers note limitations: the study focused on male undergraduates in one country, so findings may not generalize to all ages or settings. Still, the identified pattern—domain-specific inflexibility amplifying risk—can inform preventive strategies in Thai universities, gyms, and online spaces. Campaigns that promote flexible thinking about health, encourage varied fitness routines, and challenge binary beliefs about body shape or masculinity could help reduce risk, particularly where traditional and modern values intersect.
Experts recommend practical steps for Thai students, teachers, and gym operators: encourage open dialogue about body image ideals and the dangers of rigid exercise routines; emphasize listening to the body and adjusting for injuries; and provide psychological support for those showing preoccupation with appearance or exercise. University counseling centers and youth wellness groups should consider screening for cognitive inflexibility as a risk factor for exercise-related distress. National mental health campaigns already address eating disorders among women; parallel attention to young men is needed, given their often-hidden struggles.
For readers concerned about themselves or friends, consider self-reflection: Can you skip a workout without guilt? Do you adapt your routine based on energy, injuries, or social obligations, or do you persist rigidly despite harm? If the latter, it may be time to seek guidance from a mental health professional, a certified fitness trainer, or a trusted community leader.
Further reading and context can be found through health research summaries and discussions with professionals skilled in eating and exercise disorders in Thailand. Cultivating a balanced, flexible approach to fitness is essential for physical health and long-term wellbeing in a fast-changing Thai society.