Cognitive Rigidity Linked to Disordered Exercise in Men
As the conversation around men’s mental health and body image continues to grow, new research sheds light on a psychological factor that may be fueling a troubling trend: disordered exercise behaviors. According to recent findings, cognitive rigidity—also known as cognitive inflexibility—may play a key role in pushing some men toward compulsive, unhealthy exercise patterns.
What Is Cognitive Rigidity?
Cognitive rigidity refers to a psychological trait where individuals struggle to adapt their thinking or behavior in response to changing situations. People with high cognitive rigidity often:
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Stick to routines or rules rigidly
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Have difficulty adapting to new ideas or feedback
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Struggle with ambiguity or change
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Feel uncomfortable when plans deviate
In the context of health and fitness, this can translate into obsessive adherence to exercise routines, even when it's physically or mentally harmful.
The Link to Disordered Exercise
Disordered exercise is not the same as high dedication or athletic discipline. It involves:
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Exercising excessively despite pain, fatigue, or injury
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Skipping social or work obligations to work out
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Feeling anxious, guilty, or depressed when unable to exercise
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Using exercise to control weight or body image in an extreme, unsustainable way
The new research suggests that men who are cognitively rigid may be more likely to develop these patterns, because they:
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Struggle to adjust their workout routines, even when their body needs rest
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Feel intense guilt if they miss a session
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View deviation from fitness goals as failure
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Prioritize strict routines over health, balance, or well-being
Why This Matters
While eating disorders and body dysmorphia have long been associated with women, men are increasingly experiencing similar struggles—but often in silence. In particular, social media, "fitspiration" culture, and unrealistic fitness standards contribute to rising cases of:
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Muscle dysmorphia (also known as “bigorexia”)
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Orthorexia (obsession with “clean” or “perfect” eating)
Cognitive rigidity may act as a psychological gateway, making some men more vulnerable to these pressures and less able to break out of harmful cycles.
Who’s at Risk?
Men who may be at higher risk for rigid thinking and disordered exercise include:
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Perfectionists or highly achievement-oriented individuals
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Athletes or fitness influencers with intense schedules
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Men in appearance-focused industries (modeling, bodybuilding, entertainment)
It’s important to note: not all structured or high-volume exercise is disordered. The problem arises when behavior becomes compulsive, rigid, and damaging to other areas of life.
Warning Signs to Watch For
If you or someone you know shows the following signs, it may indicate disordered exercise habits:
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Working out despite illness or injury
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Anxiety or guilt when missing a workout
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Refusing rest days
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Neglecting relationships, work, or mental health due to exercise
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Equating self-worth with fitness performance or physique
How to Support Healthy Exercise Mindsets
Whether you're a coach, friend, or someone on a personal fitness journey, here’s how to promote healthier habits:
1. Encourage Flexibility
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Allow rest days or program changes
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Shift focus from appearance to performance or enjoyment
2. Challenge All-or-Nothing Thinking
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One missed session doesn’t erase progress
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Health is not only measured by discipline or muscle
3. Watch the Language
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Avoid glorifying pain, restriction, or overtraining
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Be cautious of toxic fitness culture online
4. Seek Professional Support
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A therapist or counselor can help address cognitive rigidity and body image issues
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Registered dietitians and trainers can guide safe, balanced routines
Final Thoughts: Mental Flexibility Is Physical Strength
The growing awareness of how cognitive rigidity contributes to disordered exercise in men is a crucial step forward. Fitness is not just about lifting heavier or running faster—it’s also about mental adaptability, rest, and balance.
Recognizing and addressing rigid thinking isn’t weakness—it’s strength. By promoting mental flexibility alongside physical training, we can help men build healthier, more sustainable relationships with exercise.
Join the Conversation
Have you struggled with exercise guilt or rigid routines? Share your story in the comments below—or check out our related posts on mental health and fitness.