Some weightlifters suffer from 'manorexia'

While many Australians hit the gym as a combative strategy in the battle of the bulge, a study has found some are fighting on the opposing side - for the bulge. More than 10 per cent of weightlifters, in a study conducted by Southern Cross University in northern NSW, believe that they are too small, and may suffer from a psychological disorder known as muscle dysmorphia. The condition dubbed as `manorexia,' results in sufferers being determined to become more muscular, despite some exhibiting more muscles than the average person. The research, which surveyed 116 weightlifters, showed that those likely to exhibit signs of the disorder were young men and those who used supplements. Honours student at Southern Cross University, Johanna Nieuwoudt undertook the research and said the condition could be harmful, particularly if it was combined with steroid abuse. "There can be musculo-skeletal injuries and people with the condition are more likely to continue to train when they are injured or ill," Ms Nieuwoudt said in a statement. "Their social life suffers and the quest to get bigger can become obsessive, with their relationship with their body overcoming all else." Muscle dysmorphia is yet to be fully accepted by health authorities and Ms Nieuwoudt says there is more research needed into the cause and treatment of the disorder.