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Social identification, exercise participation, and positive exercise experiences: Evidence from parkrun.

Stevens, M., Rees, T. and Polman, R., 2019. Social identification, exercise participation, and positive exercise experiences: Evidence from parkrun. Journal of sports sciences, 37 (2), 221-228.

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DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1489360

Abstract

Growing evidence suggests that social identities may have profound implications for physical activity participation. Real-world examinations of this relationship have, however, been lacking, with research predominantly examining intentions and hypothetical scenarios. To address this shortcoming and further advance understanding in this area, the present study tested relationships between group identification, participation, two exercise-specific outcomes (exercise-specific satisfaction and group cohesion), and a broad health indicator (life satisfaction) among individuals recruited from parkrun. Participants (N=289) completed questionnaires measuring all variables except participants’ parkrun participation, which was objectively assessed. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that group identification was significantly associated with greater participation, exercise-specific satisfaction, group cohesion, and life satisfaction. Findings provide real-world evidence of the health-related benefits associated with forming strong social identities in exercise settings.

Item Type:Article
ISSN:0264-0414
Uncontrolled Keywords:social identity; exercise; structural equation modeling; parkrun
Group:Bournemouth University Business School
ID Code:30851
Deposited By: Symplectic RT2
Deposited On:12 Jun 2018 10:10
Last Modified:14 Mar 2022 14:11

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