Validation of the Chinese Version of the Exercise Dependence Scale-Revised (EDS-R)

The Exercise Dependence Scale-Revised (EDS-R) has been suggested as screening tool for exercise dependence (ED), however, a validated Chinese version of this instrument is currently lacking. To this end, the present study translated and evaluated the psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the scale. Following a forward-backward translation of the EDS-R, the Chinese version (EDS-C) as well as validated scales assessing associated constructs were administered to a large sample of habitual exercisers (N=1447, 52.4% male) in universities and communities. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed and invariance test across gender was carried out. Additionally, internal consistency and test-retest reliability were determined. Furthermore, construct validity was tested by investigating associations of ED with exercise variables and related constructs. We observed that the EDS-C confirmed the original seven-factor structure (TLI = .94, CFI = .95, RMSEA = .068, SRMR = .032) and showed invariance across genders. Moreover, we observed good internal consistency, with Cronbach alpha ranging from 0.73 to 0.93 for sub-scales and a moderate test-retest reliability (r: 0.45-0.82). The construct validity was additionally supported given that higher levels in EDS-C associated with a higher frequency of exercise and higher levels of eating disorder symptoms, body image inflexibility and generalized anxiety symptoms. In summary, EDS-C is a reliable and valid screening tool for ED in Chinese universities as well as communities.