In it for the long run: An ethnography of psychological ...

In it for the Long Run: An Ethnography of Psychological and Social Benefits of Distance Running

by Dan Way A thesis submitted in conformity with the requirements for the degree of Master of Science Graduate Department of Exercise Sciences University of Toronto

? Copyright by Dan Way (2012)

In it for the Long Run: An Ethnography of Psychological and Social Benefits of Distance Running

Master of Science (2012) Dan Way

Department of Exercise Sciences University of Toronto Abstract

Recreational running is an activity increasing in popularity (Running USA, 2012). The current study sought to gain an `insiders' perspective into the `lived experiences' and social world of distance running so to explore the meaning, value and significance of the activity to the lives of `highly committed' runners in Toronto (Canada). Ethnography of running club participants was used to inform the research. Findings suggest that commitment to distance running was effective for fulfilling a number of human `needs', including for health, fitness, acceptance, belonging, self-esteem, autonomy, competence, relatedness and perhaps self-actualization as proposed by Maslow (1954) and Deci and Ryan (2000). Running was further conceptualized as a "serious leisure" (Stebbins, 1982) which helps explain the process of adaptively incorporating physical activity into one's life and committing long-term. This research highlights some oft ignored psychological and social benefits of physical activity adherence which may contribute to improved overall health and well-being.

Keywords: ethnography, physical culture, health, human needs, selfactualization, self-determination, serious leisure

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Acknowledgements Since the time I began the endeavour of pursuing this degree, back in September of 2009, I have raced two full marathons, dozens of shorter events and have run hundreds and thousands of kilometres in training and preparation. In that time, I have learned much about myself, my peers and the sport itself and yet none of that compares to the marathon-like challenge that has been the writing of this thesis. There are many people whom have made this possible and I feel a great need to thank each and every one of them for their unique and special contributions. First and foremost, I thank my supervisors, Mike and Gretchen, for the unwavering support and guidance they have provided during this long and winding road. From taking me on as a student despite my novelty to the field, to introducing me to the fascinating, and at times frustrating, world of sport psychology, sociology and physical cultural studies, and for continuing to challenge the way I think about the world and my work, my deepest thanks to you both. To my thesis committee for the tremendous time and effort they've spent in helping to make the final product what it is now and their always insightful and constructive comments and critiques. To my friends, family and peers for the support they have provided and the patience they've shown and for always believing that it would get done... eventually! And finally, to my participants, who have since become among my closest friends and supporters. Your dedication, commitment and love of running have inspired me to share your passion, your knowledge and your way of being. Thank you all.

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Table of Contents Abstract.......................................................................................................................................... ii Acknowledgments....................................................................................................................... iii Table of Contents......................................................................................................................... iv List of Appendices........................................................................................................................ vi Chapter 1: Personal Reflection............................................................................................... 1 Chapter 2: Introduction.......................................................................................................... 2 Chapter 3: Review of Literature............................................................................................. 5

3.1 Physical Activity for Health and Well-being.......................................................... 6 3.2 Recommended Guidelines...................................................................................... 7 3.3 Determinants of Physical Activity and Exercise Behaviour................................. 9 3.4 Commitment to Physical Activity as Positive Psychology................................. 11 3.5 Psychology of Physical Activity and Exercise Behaviours.................................. 13 3.6 Present Study Purpose and Rationale................................................................. 16 Chapter 4: Methods.............................................................................................................. 16 4.1 Ethnography as Methodology............................................................................... 17 4.2 Performing Ethnography....................................................................................... 23 4.3 Participants.............................................................................................................. 29 4.4 Data Collection........................................................................................................ 32 4.5 Data Analysis........................................................................................................... 36 Chapter 5: Findings................................................................................................................ 37 5.1 Fulfilling `Needs'..................................................................................................... 39

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5.2 Perseverance........................................................................................................... 41 5.3 Competence and Mastery..................................................................................... 43 5.4 Competition............................................................................................................. 46 5.5 Identity..................................................................................................................... 49

5.5.1 Personal Identity and Autonomy......................................................... 50 5.5.2 Social Identity and Relatedness............................................................ 54 5.6 Psychological Flow.................................................................................................. 58 Chapter 6: Discussion............................................................................................................ 63 6.1 Running as Serious Leisure.................................................................................... 65 6.1.1 Perseverance........................................................................................... 66 6.1.2 A Leisure Career and Lifestyle............................................................... 72 6.1.3 Skills and Knowledge.............................................................................. 76 6.1.4 Special Rewards and Durable Benefits................................................ 77 6.1.5 Unique Ethos and Social World............................................................ 85 6.1.6 Personal and Social Identity.................................................................. 91 6.2 Motivation and Achievement Orientation.......................................................... 93 6.3 Strengths and Limitations................................................................................... 98 6.4 Implications........................................................................................................... 100 Chapter 7: Summary and Conclusions............................................................................... 102 References................................................................................................................................ 107 Appendices................................................................................................................................ 123

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