Ecological systems approach to investigate performance in runners: theory, methods, and applications

Abstract

Our purpose was to investigate the performance predictors in runners, using an ecological approach. The studies were categorized into: theoretical and empirical. For that, different methodological procedures were used. For the theoretical studies, we conducted a systematic review, a study protocol and developed a conceptual model to guide the empirical research. For the empirical studies, we used a two-level of information: runners (level 1), and countries (level two). Using an online survey, we collected data from runners of five countries, between 2022/2023. The questionnaire used allowed us to obtain information in five different domains: demographic information, anthropometric, sociodemographic, training characteristics, and training environment. For information about the countries, secondary and open access data (human development index, and dimensions of culture) were used. A total of 279 non-professional runners from Brazil, Spain, Kenya, Portugal, and Poland were sampled. A cluster analysis, network, and regression models were built, adopting a confidence interval of 95%. The main findings were: 1) the relevance of the predictors range according to the distance covered; 2) runners from different countries receive different types of support, therefore, there is a negative association between the support received and performance; 3) the human development index is associated with the training volume, and age of start in the running practice, both positively associated with performance; 4) there is a positive and significant relationship between countries individualism and performance in running. Future research should continue to investigate the complex interplay between micro and macro environmental factors to gain deeper insights into the performance of runners.