Determinants of Life Satisfaction Among Marathon Runners

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess life satisfaction and health behaviors among marathon runners and explore the
determinants of higher satisfaction levels. The hypothesis was that marathon participation leads to pro-health behaviors
and increased life satisfaction.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 506 Polish marathon runners. Participants were recruited through
a social network for runners. Health behaviors were measured using the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), while life
satisfaction was assessed using the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Statistical analyses included regression models to
identify predictors of life satisfaction.
Results: The analysis revealed that marathon runners exhibited a high level of life satisfaction, with 45% of women and
37% of men reporting high satisfaction. Significant differences were found in training distances and marathon participation
between genders. The regression model identified three key predictors of life satisfaction: training experience, number of
marathons completed, and the overall health behavior index (HBI). Additionally, when health behavior categories were
further analyzed, the Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) category showed the strongest association with life satisfaction. The
final model explained 18% of the variability in life satisfaction, with the number of completed marathons and PMA being
significant predictors.
Conclusions: Marathon participation fosters pro-health behaviors, particularly a positive mental attitude, which contributes
to higher life satisfaction. This highlights the importance of mental well-being alongside physical activity in long-distance
running. Promoting running as an accessible form of exercise, with a focus on health education and psychological support,
could significantly improve participants' quality of life.