Running Events Research Articles

Effects of Three Different Distance/Elevation-Gain Ultra-Trail Races on Red Blood Cell Oxidative Stress and Senescence, and Blood Rheology.

Red blood cells (RBCs) senescence and blood rheology during ultra-endurance running events appear to be impacted differently depending on the race distance. The physiological mechanisms underlying these differences are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of three different ultra-trail running races performed in La Reunion Island (Mascareignes, "the 70 km", 70 km/4,000 m D+; Trail Du Bourbon, "the 100 km", 100 km/6,090 m D+; Diagonale des Fous, "the 170 km", 170 km/10,500 m D+) on RBC oxidative stress, RBC senescence and blood rheology in 66 finishers (18 "70 km", 24 "100 km", 24 "170 km"). We observed a decrease in RBC antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase) positively related to the race distance, and an increase in RBC H2O2 and isoprostane levels after the three races. However, RBC H2O2 and isoprostane levels were found to be higher after the 70 km compared to the 170 km and the 100 km races. RBC phosphatidylserine externalization increased over baseline value after the 70 km only. Chymotrypsin-like and trypsin-like activities of the RBC proteasome were decreased after all races compared to before. RBC-derived microparticles (RBC-MPs) were increased after the 170 km and the 70 km races. Despite increased RBC senescence markers, RBC deformability increased after the three races. Blood viscosity was differently impacted by the three races with a decrease at low shear rate after the two longest races (the 170 km and the 100 km), and an increase at high shear rate after the shortest one (the 70 km). Our results confirm that ultra endurance running events differently impact on RBC senescence markers and blood viscosity depending on the race distance, and suggest that RBC oxidative stress could play a key role in the observed alterations.

Pre-race medical clearance in 60,609 distance running race entrants: which entrants sought clearance, what physicians did, and what was the outcome? SAFER XXXVII.

Medical clearance is often recommended for athletes prior to endurance exercise. The primary aim was to determine the percentage (%) of race entrants that sought medical clearance prior to participation in endurance running events, describe the diagnostic modalities used by doctors to assess entrants seeking medical clearance, and the clearance advice given. Secondary aims were to investigate the factors associated with seeking and outcome of clearance. All consenting race entrants who completed an online screening questionnaire during registration to participate in the 21.1 km or 56 km Two Oceans marathon races from 2013-2015 (N.=60,609) were included. Runners were stratified into four risk categories: low risk (LR), intermediate risk (IR), high risk (HR) and very high risk (VHR). Runners were asked if they consulted with a medical doctor to obtain medical clearance. Follow-up questions enquired about what the doctor did when they sought medical clearance and what advice the doctor gave as an outcome of the medical clearance consultation. Prevalence (%, 95% CI) and Prevalence Ratios (PRs) are reported. Over the 3-year period, 14.8% of entrants sought medical clearance. For clearance, doctors used history only (9.9%), history and physical examination (36.7%) and history, physical examination, and special investigations (53.0%). Most entrants seeking medical clearance were fully cleared to race (87.7% in 21.1 km and 85.9% in 56 km) (P=0.0156). Factors associated with seeking medical clearance include longer race distance, older age and a higher risk category (P<0.0001). The methods doctors use when conducting medical clearance consultations vary greatly. Further research is suggested to develop a protocol that doctors can use for medical consultations.

ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIOUR PATTERNS AMONG PARTICIPATING OF THE 21ST EDITION OF THE CRACOVIA MARATHON (Poland – Krakow, 14 April 2024). RESEARCH NOTICE

In this study, a summary is presented of empirical research conducted among participants of the 21st edition of the Cracovia Marathon—one of the most popular and largest running events organised in Poland. The main goal of the research was to identify the needs and expectations of runners, as well as to understand their motivations, preferences, running habits and behavioural patterns. The research was carried out using the CAWI method among all participants of the aforementioned Cracovia Marathon edition. Ultimately, 364 runners took part in the study, the majority of whom were from Poland (over 98% of respondents). In general terms, the results of the research revealed that physical activity in the form of "running" is becoming increasingly popular among the Polish society, growing into an important element of lifestyle and a means of consciously shaping health, regardless of age or level of physical advancement. This form of activity is supported by the development of sports infrastructure, such as running trails and parks. More detailed research results—described in the report titled Expectations and Needs of Runners Based on Research into Preferences, Motivations, and Behavioral Patterns of Participants in the 21st Cracovia Marathon—indicate socially anticipated directions for the development of running events to better adapt them to the evolving needs and preferences of runners. It is worth noting that, until now, no such studies have been conducted in relation to a running event held in Krakow.

The Influence of Sponsorship on Marketing Development Fun Run in Central Java

This study aims to analyze the influence of sponsorship on the marketing and development of fun run sports in Central Java. Fun run as a type of recreational sport is increasingly in demand by various groups of people. The involvement of sponsors in this activity plays an important role in increasing the attraction, participation, and success of the event. Sponsorship makes a significant contribution through financial support, provision of facilities, and promotion. This study uses a quantitative approach with a survey of participants and organizers and sponsors involved in fun run events specifically in the Central Java region. The results of the analysis show that sponsorship has a positive impact on increasing brand awareness, increasing the number of participants participating in the Fun Run, and can ensure the sustainability of the event effectively. Thus, the sustainability of the relationship between organizers and sponsors is a key factor in supporting the marketing and development of fun runs in Central Java.

Marketing Mix Factors and the Attitudes of Road Race Running Event Organizers After the COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand

Marketing Mix Factors and the Attitudes of Road Race Running Event Organizers After the COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand

Associations between body mass index and physical fitness indicators among Chinese university students: a multicenter cross-sectional study

BackgroundIncreasing body mass index (BMI) has many negative effects on the physical and mental health of university students and has become a common public health problem in all countries. However, there are few studies on the association between BMI and physical fitness indicators among Chinese university students in developing countries, and the findings are inconsistent. The present study aims to analyze the association between BMI and physical fitness indicators among Chinese university students, to assist in university students’ health development and intervention.MethodsIn this study, we conducted a cross-sectional assessment of BMI of 29,371 university students and a cross-sectional assessment of physical fitness indicators of vital capacity, sit and reach, pull-up(boys), sit-up(girls), standing long jump, 50 m dash, 1000 m run(boys ), 800 m run(girls). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson’s correlation analysis, and nonlinear regression modeling were used to analyze the associations that existed between BMI and various physical fitness indicators.ResultsThe percentages of Chinese university students in emaciated, normal, overweight, and obese were 17.8%, 65.3%, 14.9%, and 2.0%, respectively. Comparing between different BMI groups (emaciated, normal, overweight, and obesity), for boys, the effect values ranged from 1.0 to 2.0% for the items of vital capacity, sit and reach, pull-up/situp, standing long jump, 50 m dash, and 1000/800 m-run. For run events, the range of effect sizes ranged from 0.2 to 0.9; the range of effect sizes for girls also ranged from 0.2 to 0.9.ConclusionsThe physical fitness level of emaciated and obese Chinese university students is generally lower than that of normal-weight students, and the relationship between BMI and physical fitness indicators shows a “U-shape” or “inverted U-shape” curve. The effect of BMI on physical fitness is more significant in boys than in university girls. In the future, targeted physical exercise and health education should be provided to emaciated and obese university students to maintain a reasonable body weight and promote the healthy development of physical fitness.

Customer-to-Customer Value Co-Creation: A Customer-Dominant Framework of Value

Drawing on customer-dominant logic and running events contexts, this paper develops a customer-dominant framework of value that outlines customers’ interactions with other peers in service encounters and their lifeworld. In-depth interviews, netnography, and observational data uncovered eighteen customer-to-customer value co-creation activities, through which a two-dimensional framework was developed. It represents the multifaceted nature of value formation involving multiple collective contexts. It also adds insights into collective and societal benefits stemming from customer-to-customer value co-creation activities and specifies the different types of service providers’ involvement in such activities. The study concludes with a strategic framework to facilitate customer-to-customer value co-creation.

Sex differences in elite track and field performances and inferences about steroid doping.

Females likely experience larger performance benefits from androgenic-anabolic steroids than males. We set out to determine if there were temporal differences in select athletics (track and field) records between females and males. Exploratory aims included: (1) evaluating the improvements in female and male world records over time, and (2) investigating the influence of doping programs on male and female world records before and after 1990, when sports governing bodies began to implement random out-of-competition and systematic in-competition drug testing. We collected the top 500 performances of all time for both sexes from an online database (worldathletics.org) in four running events (100, 200, 400 and 800m) and two throwing events (discus throw and shot-put). Data were stratified into quintiles based on world record ranking (1st to 100th, 101st to 200th, etc.). The temporal distribution of the top 100 female performers was significantly earlier than the top 100 male performers (year: 2000±1 vs. 2005±1, respectively; P<0.0001). Within the event, the top performances occurred significantly earlier for females in the 800m (year: 1995±15 vs. 2003±12; P=0.0007) and shot-put (year: 1992±14 vs. 2003±17; P=0.0004). Among females, world records rapidly improved through the 1980s, but following 1990, the world records ceased to improve. Geographically, there was a greater representation of countries with state-sponsored doping programs, specifically among female performances. We postulate these sex differences in the temporal distribution of top performances are likely associated with enhanced effectiveness of exogenous androgens (steroid doping) among female athletes with lower endogenous androgen hormones compared to males.

Nutrition beliefs, and practices of ultra-endurance runners in Ireland for gastrointestinal symptom management

Ultra-endurance running (UER) events are defined based upon duration, exceeding 4-6 hours, or distance, surpassing the 26.3-mile marathon(1). Oftentimes event courses comprise of extreme environmental conditions, altitudes, temperatures, terrains, or a combination. UER poses significant short- and long- term health implications. UER athletes’ risk chronic maladaptation of various systems, namely the cardiovascular, immune, and digestive(2). Research suggests that exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS) are among the leading cause of underperformance in distance running. Altered mesenteric blood flow, gastric emptying, and peristaltic activity from exercise are exacerbated by the conditions accompanying many ultraevents, impairing performance and recovery. Though Ex-GIS are generally temporary, there remains the potential for long-term medical conditions to arise, such as ischemic bowel disease and haemorrhagic gastritis. Ample nutritional planning and intake throughout training and racing is critical to enhance performance and recovery while minimizing Ex-GIS and its associated chronic conditions(3).The aim of this research was to investigate the nutrition beliefs, and practices of ultra-endurance runners in Ireland.An adapted electronic version of a validated questionnaire by Scrivin at al.(4) was used. A recruitment infographic of eligibility criteria (≥18 years old, healthy, no diagnosed health conditions except for irritable bowel syndrome, and training for/ competing in running events exceeding 4 hours) was distributed online and at events (Connemarathon, Kerry 50K ultra). Individuals that contacted the researchers and were deemed eligible for inclusion were directed to a Microsoft Forms page, where they gave consent and completed the questionnaire. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 28 (IBM Corporation New Orchard Road Armonk, NY 10504-1722, United States).Sixty-eight (n = 68) individuals completed the questionnaire with one excluded due to medical diagnosis. Remaining participants (n = 46 males, n = 21 females) ranged from 25-66 with one over 66 years old. Previous experience was the main factor influencing nutrition practices (N = 30, 45.5%). N = 3 (4.5%) sourced information from qualified professionals. N = 42 (59.4%) experienced Ex-GIS, usually evenly throughout training and competition. Many had not implemented dietary or nondietary strategies to manage Ex-GIS. Supplementing with nitrates (N = 9) and probiotics (N = 4) were the most common dietary practices to alleviate Ex-GIS, while other (N = 14) and portion control (N = 13) were the most reported non-dietary practice.This research cohort reflects the broader UER community, with 81% being &gt;35 years old “masters” athletes, and male. This study suggests that Ex-GIS are commonplace throughout. Similarly, this research highlights the range of symptoms experienced. The absence in dietary and non-dietary practices employed for Ex-GIS management suggests a shortfall in the availability of nutrition information specific to this problem. Further research is required to understand the mechanisms behind UER Ex-GIS, its management, and best practices for communicating these to the target audience.

Exertional heat stroke. Are we cool enough? Retrospective observational study of patients of running events

BackgroundEarly recognition and immediate cooling are paramount in the treatment for exertional heat stroke (EHS). The most effective method is cold water immersion, however, practicalities may limit use in pre-hospital setting. An alternative is rotating ice-water-soaked towels, which requires less personnel, can be quickly deployed, and allows easier patient monitoring. ObjectivesWe aimed to investigate the effectiveness of treatment with rotating ice-water-soaked towels for patients with EHS to reduce (tympanic) temperature <104°F(40°C) within 30 minutes. MethodsIn this retrospective observational study participants ≥18 years who received medical care at running events with distances between 2.6 mile (4.2km) and 26.2 miles (42.195 km; a full marathon) between 2016 and 2019 were included. Primary outcome was the percentage of EHS patients that reached a temperature below 104°F(40°C) within 30 minutes by cooling with rotating ice-water-soaked towels. ResultsA total of 374,534 runners participated in one of the running events in the study period, of whom 879 required medical attention. 48 runners had a tympanic temperature ≥104°F(40°C), of whom 36 were classified as EHS based on presence of neurological symptoms. These patients had a median age of 32.5 years, and majority were male (69%). All patients that were cooled reached temperature <104°F(40°C) within 30 minutes. The mean cooling rate was 0.22°F/minute CI 0.16-0.27 (0.12C/min CI 0.09-0.15). None of the patients with EHS died. ConclusionsAll patients with EHS in our study reached a temperature of <104°F (40°C) within 30 minutes, suggesting rotating ice-water-soaked towels could provide an effective and practical method of cooling in the prehospital setting.

Impact of relative lower-limb length on heat loss and body temperature during running.

Long lower limbs relative to body size are thought to be an adaptation to prevent excessive increases in body temperature during running in hot climate. The advantage of long lower limbs relative to body size is usually explained by an increase in body surface area relative to mass; however, the influence of limb length on relative body surface area was shown to be minor. We aimed to experimentally test the effect of relative lower-limb length (LLL) on body temperature changes during running. Furthermore, we tested the effect of relative LLL on relative body surface area. Adult men (n = 37) ran for 40 min on a treadmill, while their core temperature (ingestible thermometer), skin temperature (infrared thermography), and oxygen consumption (indirect calorimetry) were measured. Relative LLL was calculated as residuals from linear regression of LLL on stature. Linear regression was used to test the effect of relative LLL on standardized heat loss (heat loss/heat production), mean body temperature (weighted mean of skin and core temperatures), and body surface area. Relative LLL had a positive effect on standardized heat loss and a negative effect on mean body temperature change during running. Relative LLL had a positive effect on the proportion of body surface area allocated to the lower limbs but not on the relative body surface area. The reduced increase in mean body temperature associated with long lower limbs suggests an advantage of relatively long lower limbs for greater endurance and speed during persistence hunting or contemporary running events.

The impact of a repetitious training approach on improving speed endurance for the 100m running event in a sample of second-year students at the Open Educational College

The subject lacks practical use correctly, and also unlike some sources and studies in the extent of developing short-term speed tolerance, here the research problem emerged in trying to use the researcher for the iterative method, which contributes to improving the speed endurance of the effectiveness of running (100 m) through the size required by this effectiveness to achieve good results, The aim of the research is to identify the impact of the iterative method in the development of speed and in the assumptions statistical significance between the pre-and post-tests to withstand the speed and the researcher used the experimental approach to suit the nature of the research and the research community was students of the Open Educational College and the researcher chose them a sample of (10) students and either conclusion There was a clear improvement in the development of speed tolerance and moral differences. The researcher recommended emphasising the use of repetitive training and other training methods.

Motivations behind Active Sport Tourists Participating in Natural and Cultural Landscapes

Recreational running, both on roads and in mountains, is one of the most practiced physical activities worldwide, and so, the motivations behind participating have been quite extensively described in the literature. However, the cultural and environmental motivations behind these athletes traveling to other countries or destinations to compete have not been properly addressed yet. The aim of this research is to analyze the motivations of sport tourists and to compare the motivations that cause mountain runners and city runners to compete. A cross-sectional study with a total of 244 athletes, divided into a group of city marathon runners (N = 118) and a group of mountain ultra-marathon runners (N = 126), was conducted. Athletes completed the Sports Tourism Motivation Scale (STMS), composed of 37 items and nine dimensions, through an online survey. Participants were asked questions related to their age, running experience, distance to events, numbers of nights in hotels and volunteering. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences in four out of the nine dimensions of the STMS between city and mountain runners’ motivations and, likewise, statistical differences were found in some dimensions of the scale related to participants’ sex, age, running experience, numbers of nights in a hotel, travel distance and volunteering. In conclusion, the reasons why runners participate in mountain and city running events are different; likewise, some sociodemographic variables should be taken into account when organizing such sporting events in a sustainable way, in order to provide organizers with the most suitable information and attract the most participants.

TCM diagnostics for injury prevention in Mid/Long-Distance runs

The middle and long-distance running event in the "College Students' Physical Health Standards" test has the effect of enhancing students' willpower, expressiveness, and social adaptability. However, injuries are highly likely to occur during the middle and long-distance running, which can cause physical harm and mental pressure to schools, teachers, parents, and students, and affect the authenticity of the test results. The "Four Diagnostic Methods" of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are treasures of our country's traditional medical culture. By utilizing the rich theories and experiences of TCM' s "Four Diagnostic Methods" to explore the hidden dangers that lead to sports injuries, it is possible to prevent injuries in middle and long-distance running at an early stage and reduce the occurrence of sports injuries.

Motivational factors for participation in mass running events: a comparative study of females and males with physical disabilities

BackgroundWhile the motivations of individuals without impairments for participating in mass running events are well-documented, there is a lack of current research exploring why people with physical disabilities engage in these events. This study aims to identify the motives for participation among people with physical disabilities, taking into account factors such as sex, age (emerging adults vs. middle-aged adults), time since injury or illness, and mode of movement during the run (wheelchair vs. standing).MethodsIn total, 119 participants (51.3% male; mean age of 36 years) completed the Polish version of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale questionnaire. The study was carried out using the diagnostic survey method. Online survey forms were sent to 31 organizations from the Greater Poland region, including sports clubs for individuals with disabilities and runners’ clubs open to both individuals with and without disabilities.ResultsThis study uncovered distinct motivational differences based on age and mode of movement during the run. For participants aged under 35 compared to those over 35, significant differences were noted in the motives of recognition (Z = − 2.834, p = 0.005) and affiliation (Z = − 2.534, p = 0.011). Similarly, when comparing wheelchair users with standing participants, notable disparities were observed in motives related to weight (Z = − 5.109, p = < 0.001) and personal goal achievement (Z = − 2.613, p = 0.009). There was also a significant positive relationship between the time since injury or illness and five out of nine subscales of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale (i.e. affiliation: r = 0.256, p = 0.007; recognition: r = 0.239, p = 0.011). The study found no significant differences in the motivations between men and women with physical disabilities for participating in mass running events.ConclusionsWhen organizing and promoting running events for people with physical disabilities, it is important to consider factors such as the age of runners, time since injury, and mode of movement during the run. Additionally, it should be noted that no significant differences are found based on gender, indicating that both male and female participants are driven by similar motivations when it comes to participating in these events.

Evaluation of the Annual Physical Training Examination and Possible Suggestions for Change in the Endurance Discipline of Running

The annual examination is an integral part of the physical training system of a soldier of the Army of the Czech Republic, which assesses his physical fitness. This assessment provides dual feedback - it informs examinees of how they are performing against normative tables and each other, and at the same time, gives commanders an idea of the current physical fitness of their subordinates. This thesis focuses on the endurance event of the 12-minute run (also known as the Cooper test). Based on data from 2011 to 2021 and nearly 50,000 evaluated tests, the potential effects of age on soldiers' physical performance and appropriate adjustments to individual age limits were examined. The analysis showed that the difficulty setting for achieving the same rating differs for both genders and that there is a different decline in physical performance with increasing age than reflected in current norms. Based on these analyses, a proposal for modifications to the annual physical training test was developed and is appended to this paper.

The Development of Integrated Marketing Communication Strategies for Organizing International Running Events

This study employs a mixed-methods approach with the following objectives1) To study integrated marketing communication strategies for organizing international running events. 2) To examine the factors influencing the decision to participate in international running events. 3) To investigate the service marketing mix (7Ps) factors that affect the decision to participate in international running events. 4) To analyze the influence of social media on the participation in international running events. The findings reveal that successful marketing strategies for international running events require clear objectives and distinctive product positioning, incorporating creative elements with local identity, culture, traditions, cuisine, and tourist attractions into the event design. These elements should be reflected in race apparel, medals, trophies, and the overall atmosphere to enhance participants' experiences, which can then be shared on social media platforms. This approach fosters loyalty and encourages repeat participation and event promotion. Additionally, integrated marketing communication tools must be utilized to effectively engage potential participants and stimulate interest. Among the 7Ps of service marketing, the distribution channel emerged as the most influential factor affecting participation decisions. Structural equation modeling analysis further indicates that the marketing mix factors directly influence social media exposure, and both marketing mix factors and social media exposure directly impact the decision to participate in international running events. Indirectly, social media exposure mediates the relationship between the marketing mix and participation decisions.

Core Temperature Response to Cold Water Immersion in Heat Stroke Patients Is Nonlinear and Unrelated to Sex or Body Size.

Cold water immersion (CWI) is the most effective treatment for exertional heat stroke (EHS). However, knowledge on core temperature response during CWI treatment and the relation with patient characteristics (i.e., sex, anthropometrics) is limited. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine the core temperature response (in °C) during CWI treatment of recreational athletes participating in large running events and investigate the impact of sex and anthropometric characteristics on the cooling rate (in °C·min -1 ). This observational study includes 57 athletes ( n = 22 females; 39%) who suffered from EHS during an exercise event in the Netherlands. After admission to the medical facilities, a rectal temperature ( Trec ) probe was inserted and all clothing was removed before immersion in an ice bath (6.4 ± 1.6°C). Rectal temperature was continuously measured throughout treatment, and treatment was continued until Trec ≤ 38.9°C or based on the decision of the emergency physician. Initial Trec did not differ between males (41.3 ± 0.9°C) and females (41.2 ± 0.8°C, P = 0.83). A nonlinear response to CWI was observed, with the decrease in Trec beginning after 6 min of CWI. The decrease in Trec did not differ between both sexes (p time*sex = 0.96). The cooling rate did not differ between males (0.21 ± 0.15°C·min -1 ) and females (0.19 ± 0.08°C·min -1 , P = 0.55), and was not related to body mass, body surface area and body surface area to mass ratio (all P values >0.05). We demonstrated that the cooling rate during CWI did not differ between men and women suffering from EHS, and that the Trec response to CWI is nonlinear and not dependent on anthropometric characteristics. This suggests that no sex differentiation is needed in the EHS treatment guidelines and confirms the necessity to continuously monitor Trec during treatment.

Why the dominance of East Africans in distance running? a narrative review

Abstract Introduction Runners from East Africa including Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda have dominated middle- and long-distance running events, for almost six decades. This narrative review examines and updates current understanding of the factors explaining the dominance of East Africans in distance running from a holistic perspective. Content The dominance of East African distance runners has puzzled researchers, with various factors proposed to explain their unparalleled success. Four key elements emerge: 1) biomechanical and physiological attributes, 2) training characteristics, 3) psychological motivations, and 4) African diet. Runners from East Africa often exhibit ectomorphic somatotypes, characterized by lean body compositions which lead them to an extraordinary biomechanical and metabolic efficiency. Their sociocultural lifestyle, training regimens beginning at a young age with aerobic activities, seem crucial, as well as moderate volume, high-intensity workouts at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 m. Psychological factors, including a strong motivation to succeed driven by aspirations for socioeconomic improvement and a rich tradition of running excellence, also contribute significantly. A multifactorial explanation considering these factors, without a clear genetic influence, is nowadays the strongest argument to explain the East African phenomenon. Summary and outlook To unravel the mystery behind the supremacy of East African runners, it is imperative to consider these multifaceted factors. The predominantly rural lifestyle of the East African population underscores the importance of aligning modern lifestyles with the evolutionary past of Homo sapiens, where physical activity was integral to daily life. Further research is required to explain this phenomenon, with a focus on genetics.

Health Aspects of Amateur Long-Distance Running

Introduction: Running, as a generally accessible form of physical activity, is recognized as a popular means of preventing lifestyle diseases. Each year, an increasing number of people of various ages, levels of training, and physical fitness participate in mass running events. Purpose: The study aims to identify the opinions of amateur long-distance runners regarding health. Material: 140 individuals from several Polish provinces, approximately 30 years old. Method: A proprietary questionnaire survey. Results: The most important factor motivating the respondents to engage in long-distance running is the improvement of sports performance, followed by the need to relieve stress, improve quality of life, and, to a lesser extent, health goals. According to most respondents, endurance-based long-distance running is healthy because it improves physical fitness, positively affects the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, enhances immunity, and is a way to relieve stress. Only a few respondents believe that running is not healthy. The main forms of preparation for half marathons and marathons among runners include warm-up exercises before the planned effort and strength and muscle stretching exercises. In the studied group of runners, past injuries do not diminish the satisfaction of engaging in long-distance running. Despite a significant number of respondents having experienced injuries in the past while practicing this sport, they still consider running to be healthy. Conclusions: Long-distance running brings numerous health benefits. It improves physical fitness, positively affects cardiovascular function, including lowering blood pressure, significantly enhances sleep quality, and helps reduce stress, as confirmed by the respondent’s opinions.