Walking the walk: a phenomenological study of long distance walking

Crust, Lee and Keegan, Richard and Piggott, David and Swann, Christian (2011) Walking the walk: a phenomenological study of long distance walking. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 23 (3). pp. 243-262. ISSN 1041-3200

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Abstract

Evidence suggests that regular walking can elicit significant psychological benefits although little evidence exists concerning long distance walking. The purpose of this study was to provide detailed accounts of the experiences of long distance walkers. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with six long distance walkers. Data were transcribed verbatim before researchers independently analyzed the transcripts. Participants reported a cumulative effect with positive feelings increasing throughout the duration of the walk. Long distance walking elicited positive emotions, reduced the effects of life-stress, and promoted an increased sense of well-being and personal growth. Results are aligned to theories and concepts from positive psychology.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Evidence suggests that regular walking can elicit significant psychological benefits although little evidence exists concerning long distance walking. The purpose of this study was to provide detailed accounts of the experiences of long distance walkers. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with six long distance walkers. Data were transcribed verbatim before researchers independently analyzed the transcripts. Participants reported a cumulative effect with positive feelings increasing throughout the duration of the walk. Long distance walking elicited positive emotions, reduced the effects of life-stress, and promoted an increased sense of well-being and personal growth. Results are aligned to theories and concepts from positive psychology.
Keywords: Flow, personal growth, positive psychology, well-being, refdoi, ref26
Subjects: C Biological Sciences > C600 Sports Science
C Biological Sciences > C890 Psychology not elsewhere classified
Divisions: College of Social Sciences > Faculty of Health & Social Sciences > School of Sport & Exercise Science
Depositing User: Alison Wilson
Date Deposited: 23 Sep 2011 09:36
Last Modified: 18 Apr 2013 16:39
URI: http://eprints.lincoln.ac.uk/id/eprint/4655

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