A Study on Body Image Anxiety and Psychological Distress among Exercisers and Non- Exercisers

Abstract

In the 21st century, where physical appearance is closely tied with self-worth, physical exercise plays a critical role in mitigating body image anxiety as well as psychological distress in adolescents and young adults. The current study examined the relationship between body image anxiety, psychological distress, and exercise among young adults. A sample of 62 participants between the age group of 18-25 were divided into two groups (31 exercisers and 31 non-exercisers) and were recorded using The Body and Appearance Self-conscious Emotion Scale (BASES) and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). The results showed non-exercisers exhibiting higher levels of guilt related to body image. However, no significant difference in the psychological distress was observed between the two groups. The lack of significance suggests the presence of other factors beyond physical activity, such as academic pressure and societal expectations, which may contribute to psychological distress. The study concludes that while exercise positively improves body image perception, its impact on psychological distress requires further comprehensive research and emphasizes the importance of holistic approach to health, positively impacting body perception and emotional resilience against psychological distress.