One dark night with the sole: examining spiritual sport experiences amongst recreational endurance runners

Abstract

Examinations of spiritual experiences and holistic approaches towards athletes and sport experiences often identify catharsis and flow as important theoretical constructs. However, empirical data supporting these theoretical discussions is sparse. This is partly due to the difficulty of defining, or identifying ‘spiritual experiences’. Our study examined recreational endurance runners competing in a 120-mile team relay race. Through post-race interviews and open-ended surveys, participants reported that the race was a deeply meaningful and personally powerful experience, experienced inward reflections, and acknowledged their connections to larger external realities. We identified three themes related to these experiences: the impact of a one-time race experience; the organic development of the spiritual experience; and feeling completely alone and yet fully connected. This study informs the growing understanding of how physically strenuous endurance athletic events can positively influence an athlete’s mental and spiritual well-being and provide a more holistic understanding of such experiences.