Dissertations and Theses
Date of Award
2016
Document Type
Thesis
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Ann Marie Yali
Second Advisor
Sarah O’Neill
Keywords
extreme obstacle courses, positive affect, character strengths, well-being.
Abstract
A large body of research demonstrates the positive benefits of numerous types of physical activity. However, the outcomes of running extreme obstacle courses (EOCs) remain unexamined. The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of running EOCs on positive affect, character strengths and well-being. The study utilized a pre-existing sample of 21 participants who filled out an online survey at two time points (pre-and-post race). The findings showed that participating in an EOC was related to increased positive affect (PA) and psychological well-being. Running an EOC with a team was associated with increased post-race teamwork and the number of prior EOCs run was negatively correlated with post-race scores on PA and teamwork. Furthermore, significant relationships were found between post-race pride and psychological well-being and zest. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Opala, Ewa, "The Influence of Running Extreme Obstacle Courses on Positive Affect, Character Strengths, and Well-Being" (2016). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cc_etds_theses/590