Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
ACTA KINESIOLOGICA, cilt.19, sa.2, 2025 (ESCI)
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.