A Qualitative Examination of Hope and Physical Activity in the No Limits Running Program

Abstract

ABSTRACTMany physical activity programs evaluate effectiveness using physiological and survey measures, but few assessments include participants’ perceptions. This study examined changes in self-perceptions of individuals participating in a 12-week beginning running program—the No Limits program. Over the course of the program, three methods of data collection took place. First, observations were completed with the researcher as both a non-participant and participant observer. Second, online individual interviews were conducted with 18 adults (15 females, 3 males), ranging from 29 to 70 years of age (M = 50.2 years, SD = 12.2 years). Finally, focus group interviews were also conducted with an additional eight female participants aged 18–32 years of age (M = 24 years, SD = 7.6 years). In individual and focus group semi-structured interviews, participants were asked to describe their experiences in the No Limits program. Two major categories emerged from the data—social support and goal-striving. Social support included experiencing a sense of belonging and encouragement from peers and coaches. Goal-striving included setting and achieving goals, which were related to participant self-confidence. The results indicated that social support, goal setting, and self-confidence are important factors in helping beginners adhere to an exercise program. The No Limits program had a positive impact on participants’ self-confidence, which has implications for physical activity and exercise adherence. Overall, these findings suggest incorporating social support, formal goal setting sessions, and efforts to increase the running-related self-efficacy to foster positive self-perceptions, exercise adherence, and long-term physical activity participation.