Abstract
This study explores the relationship between self-cognitions and running
behavior in a group of female recreational runners. Consistent with
theories of self-esteem and exerciser self-schemata, it aims to identify how
running can impact on the self, and how self-cognitions can influence
motivation and adherence to running. In-depth interviews were conducted
with 16 women of varying age, ability, and running experience who had
entered a major women’s 10K race. Inductive data analysis revealed that
there was a bi-directional relationship between running involvement and
self-cognitions. Running provided experiences which led to enhanced self-esteem, notably through perceived improvements to the physical self, but
also through increases in mastery/achievement and physical competence.
These changes contributed to the value of running for the women,
strengthened their exercise self-schema, and increased the likelihood of
adherence to running. However, family responsibilities constrained the
women in their ability to run, impacting on the exercise-self relationship
outlined.
behavior in a group of female recreational runners. Consistent with
theories of self-esteem and exerciser self-schemata, it aims to identify how
running can impact on the self, and how self-cognitions can influence
motivation and adherence to running. In-depth interviews were conducted
with 16 women of varying age, ability, and running experience who had
entered a major women’s 10K race. Inductive data analysis revealed that
there was a bi-directional relationship between running involvement and
self-cognitions. Running provided experiences which led to enhanced self-esteem, notably through perceived improvements to the physical self, but
also through increases in mastery/achievement and physical competence.
These changes contributed to the value of running for the women,
strengthened their exercise self-schema, and increased the likelihood of
adherence to running. However, family responsibilities constrained the
women in their ability to run, impacting on the exercise-self relationship
outlined.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 2 |
Pages (from-to) | 69-82 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2005 |
Keywords
- Women
- Self-esteem
- Running