Effect of Running on Perception of Self and others

Abstract

Running or jogging has become increasingly popular. Actention has been given to the positive aspects of running (1, 2, 3, 4) with physiological, mental, and even spiritual benefits claimed by participants. Leonardson and Gargiulo (5) showed that perceived physical fitness and self-concept were significantly correlated. It might be assumed that, if running produces positive benefits for the individual, these benefits would be reflected in the perception of self and others. A structured questionnaire of 55 questions was sent to 984 persons affiliated with three running clubs located in the Southwest. About 50% or 497 were completed and returned. Four hundred and fifty-four of these indicated that they ran regularly (about 22 miles per week) and had on the average three years of regular running. Of the respondents 390 were male and 64 were female, almost 70% were 26 to 50 yr. of age, 60% were college graduates or above, and 67% were engaged in an occupation with relatively high prestige. The questionnaire, developed and pretested by the researchers, contained questions calling for fixed responses and focused on perceptions of change produced by running on a regular basis. For example, when asked if running had affected emotional wellbeing, the respondent was to indicate if running had increased, reduced, or had no effect. Ninety-rwo percent of the respondents perceived increased emotional well-being as a result of running. Ninety-seven percent indicated an increase in their physical wellbeing, while 63% reported a reduction in the number of times they had been ill. An increase in the number of friendships was reported by 73% of the respondents. This increase might result from opportunities to associate with other runners. The runners' perceptions of others also appear to have been influenced. Sixty-eight percent indicated increased criticism of individuals who appear physically out-of-shape, while 34% were more critical of nonrunners. However, 55% indicated that running increased their tolerance of other people in general. Associated with perceptions of others is the interesting result that an overwhelming 74% of all respondents who live in a family environment (344) perceived an increase in their families' appreciation of their physical appearances. When considered separately, there was no significant difterence berween males' and females' perceptions that positive effects accrue personally for individuals who run regularly. Cross-validation is needed.