What is muscle dysmorphia or vigorexia?

Muscle dysmorphia, commonly known as bigorexia, is a body image disorder that primarily affects men. It involves an obsession with developing muscle mass and an irrational fear of appearing small or weak. Although those affected may be physically fit, they perceive themselves in a distorted way as thin or weak, which can lead to a never-ending cycle of extreme training and dietary control.

This disorder can lead to the use of anabolic steroids to increase muscle mass, despite the associated health risks. Muscle dysmorphia is typically accompanied by an excessive focus on physical appearance and strict diets, similar to how anorexia nervosa can manifest in women. The prevalence of muscle dysmorphia is comparable to that of other eating disorders in men, highlighting the importance of its recognition and appropriate treatment.