The Benefits and Costs of Serious Running

Abstract The primary purpose of this investigation was to determine the benefits and costs of serious running. Twenty-four runners, 12 females and 12 males with a wide range of demographic characteristics who entered and completed at least three 5K road races were selected for in-depth interviews. The results indicated that although people run for a variety of reasons, a sense of accomplishment appeared as the number one theme in this research. The runners in this study viewed a sense of accomplishment as a substantial benefit, as well as being a source of extended meaning. Health and fitness, as well as social affiliation, were also important for both initial participation and ongoing continuation and for the meaning that running held in their lives. Costs included injuries, letting oneself down, and concern for one's safety was salient for all female runners. The issue of fear was a theme that arose for female runners. Female runners considered the fear of being attacked a cost that influenced when, how, and with whom they ran. Female runners' running careers were negatively affected as a result of being concerned for their safety. It did not emerge nor was it discussed with male runners. Further research is needed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the notion of power and control for females generally and more specifically for females in the exercise domain. Whether this sense of “empowerment” is present for females in other serious leisure or sport activities remains to be determined.