From Anorexia to Iron Will: Alexa Bliss Credits Bodybuilding for Her Recovery

Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, August 23rd 2025 at 12:33 GMT by WrestlingInc.com
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Alexa Bliss, one of WWE’s most recognizable and beloved figures, has openly shared her struggles with an eating disorder throughout her career. In a recent interview with People, she detailed how embracing bodybuilding – a seemingly counterintuitive path – became the cornerstone of her recovery journey, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience for those battling similar demons.

For years, Bliss battled anorexia nervosa, a condition that significantly impacted her physical and mental health. The pressure to maintain an unrealistic body image within the entertainment industry exacerbated her existing anxieties and fueled restrictive eating habits. She described feeling trapped in a cycle of self-criticism and control, desperately trying to conform to perceived expectations while simultaneously feeling disconnected from herself.

"I was so focused on what I looked like," Bliss explained. "It wasn't about being healthy; it was about fitting into this image that I thought people wanted." This relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal led to severe physical consequences, including hair loss, brittle nails, and a weakened immune system. More importantly, it eroded her self-esteem and sense of identity.

The turning point came when Bliss began exploring bodybuilding as a way to reclaim control over her body – not through restriction, but through strength and nourishment. Initially hesitant due to the perceived focus on aesthetics within the fitness world, she soon discovered that bodybuilding offered something entirely different: a framework for building genuine physical and mental fortitude.

"I was scared of it at first because I thought it would trigger my eating disorder," Bliss admitted. "But then I realized that it wasn't about being skinny; it was about getting stronger." The structured training regimen, coupled with the need to fuel her body adequately to support muscle growth, forced her to confront her disordered eating patterns head-on.

Bodybuilding provided a tangible and measurable goal – increasing strength and building muscle mass – which shifted her focus away from weight and appearance. Instead of obsessing over calories restricted, she learned about macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) and how they contribute to overall health and performance. The process required meticulous planning and consistent effort, but it also fostered a sense of empowerment and self-discipline that extended far beyond the gym.

"It was really hard at first," Bliss recalled. "I had to learn so much about nutrition and training. But as I started seeing results – getting stronger, feeling better – it became addictive in a good way." The positive reinforcement from achieving fitness goals helped rebuild her self-esteem and challenged the negative self-talk that had plagued her for years.

Crucially, Bliss emphasized the importance of professional support throughout her recovery journey. She worked closely with therapists and registered dietitians who provided guidance, accountability, and emotional support as she navigated the complexities of overcoming an eating disorder. She also highlighted the vital role of her family and friends in providing unwavering encouragement and understanding.

Bliss’s story serves as a powerful reminder that recovery from an eating disorder is possible, even amidst intense pressure and scrutiny. Her willingness to share her experiences has resonated deeply with fans and individuals struggling with similar challenges, offering hope and inspiring them to seek help. She hopes her openness will encourage others to prioritize their mental and physical well-being and to challenge the unrealistic beauty standards that often contribute to eating disorders.

"I want people to know that they're not alone," Bliss stated. "It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to be different." Her journey demonstrates that true strength isn't about conforming to external expectations but about embracing self-acceptance, nourishing the body, and cultivating a resilient spirit – lessons she learned through the iron will of bodybuilding. For those struggling with eating disorders or seeking resources, here are some helpful links:

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): [ https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ ]
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD): [ https://anad.org/ ]

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From Anorexia to Iron Will: Alexa Bliss Credits Bodybuilding for Her Recovery