Exploring Binge Eating and Physical Activity among Community-Dwelling Women

The primary aim was to understand physical activity (PA) changes throughout the life spans of binge eating disordered (BED) participants. A secondary aim was to determine if barriers exists that limit PA participation. METHODS: Females (N=312) were recruited within the continental United States and self-administered questionnaires. BED participants (n=18), subclinical BED participants (n=19), and non-BED overweight controls (n=19) were identified. Demographic variables, PA levels, and exercise perceived benefits and barriers scores were compared. RESULTS: BED individuals reported lower PA levels during the young adult and mature adult periods when compared to non-BED body weight matched controls. Significant differences were found between BED individuals and controls for six benefits and barriers questions (p < .05). BED individuals have lower PA compared to controls during periods of the life span, and exercise benefits and barriers are significantly different. Specific barriers need to be addressed if PA is to be used as an adjunct treatment for BED individuals.