‘There will always be a part of you that longs to return’: The usefulness of photo elicitation in exploring experiences of an Ironman triathlon

Abstract

This study draws on an approach of creative analytic practice to investigate the achievement of completing an Iron Man triathlon through photo elicitation. Seven selected photographs formed the basis of a participant reflection, particularly focusing on the representation and symbolisation of the photographs in relation to the participant’s experiences. Five key premises emerged from the participant’s reflection; life-changing event, personal challenge, sense of achievement, change in well-being and sense of loss. These are discussed in relation to the use of photo elicitation as a visual method of capturing real-life lived experiences. Future research is needed to further examine the under-researched qualitative element of Iron Man triathlons and other endurance events.