A1 Journal article (refereed)
Validity of the compulsive exercise test in regular exercisers (2021)

Limburg, K., Bodill, K., Watson, H. J., Kane, R. T., Hagger, M. S., & Egan, S. J. (2021). Validity of the compulsive exercise test in regular exercisers. Eating Disorders, 29(5), 447-462. https://doi.org/10.1080/10640266.2019.1677130

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Limburg, Karina; Bodill, Kate; Watson, Hunna J.; Kane, Robert T.; Hagger, Martin S.; Egan, Sarah J.

Journal or series: Eating Disorders

ISSN: 1064-0266

eISSN: 1532-530X

Publication year: 2021

Volume: 29

Issue number: 5

Pages range: 447-462

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Publication country: United States

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10640266.2019.1677130

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/67379

Abstract

Measurement of compulsive exercise is important for the study of eating pathology in individuals who regularly participate in sport and exercise. The current study examined the factor structure, internal consistency and validity of the compulsive exercise test (CET) in regular exercisers. Participants were recruited via the internet and from sport clubs (n = 313 adults; M = 32 years; 57% female). A three-factor model for the CET was supported which included the weight control exercise, avoidance and rule-driven behaviour, and mood improvement subscales (fit statistics for the three-factor model: χ2SB = 4.39; CFI = .95; NNFI = .94, RMSEA = .100, 95% CI: .093—.110, AIC = 656.92). The subscales lack of exercise enjoyment and exercise rigidity were not retained. All factors demonstrated acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach’s α = .77 to .91. The weight control exercise and avoidance and rule-driven behaviour subscales were significantly related to eating disorder symptoms. Given the association between CET subscales and eating disorder symptoms, the CET three-factor model may be informative when assessing eating pathology in individuals who regularly exercise.

Keywords: physical training; obsessive-compulsive disorder; eating disorders; psychological tests

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2021

JUFO rating: 1