Performance goals of runners are associated with the occurrence of running-related injuries. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kemler, Ellen; Huisstede, Bionka
• Is Part Of: Physical therapy in sport. Volume 50(2021)
• Page Start: 153
• Page End: 158
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Motivation -- Goal-setting -- Association; Sports physical therapy -- Periodicals; Sports injuries -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- diagnosis -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- therapy -- Periodicals; Physical Therapy -- Periodicals; Sports Medicine -- Periodicals; 615.82088796
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2021.05.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-853X

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between running performance goals and running-related injuries (RRIs). Design: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Setting: A total of 970 recreational runners filled in an online questionnaire to collect data on personal characteristics, their running activities, RRIs, and running goals. Participants: 970 recreational runners, 1) without a running performance goal, who 2) trained to complete a certain distance, and who 3) trained to complete a certain distance and to participate in a specific running event. Main outcome measures: RRI, defined as any physical complaint developed during running in the previous 12 months. Results: A statistically significant relationship was found between runners who trained for a specific running event and who also wanted to run a certain distance (OR 2.0, 95%CI 1.23–2.98) compared with runners without a running goal. (Hinder from a) Previous injury (OR 3.9, 95%CI 2.79–5.42), overweight (OR 1.6, 95%CI 1.10–2.21), and training for more than 22.5 h/year (OR 1.7, 95%CI 1.04–2.72 and OR 2.3, 95%CI 1.42–3.81) were also associated with RRIs. Conclusion: Running to achieve running goals, specifically running to complete a certain distance and to participate in an event, is associated with the occurrence of an RRI. Highlights: This is the first study focusing on performance goals in running and the occurrence of RRIs. The study population was a representative cross-section of the running population. Training to complete a certain distance plus participating in a running event is most associated with the occurrence of RRIs. It is important to be aware of motivational aspects of runners. Healthcare professionals should give attention to discuss and set realistic performance goals to prevent (worsening of) RRIs.