Objective

This study examined the association between motivations to run and eating disturbances in a sample of obligatory and nonobligatory runners.

Method

240 males and 84 females were evaluated for running habits, motivations for running, and eating and weight concerns. 26.2% of the men and 25% of the women were classified as obligatory runners.

Results

Obligatory runners were more motivated to run by negative factors such as guilt for stopping, scored significantly higher on the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT), and had lower weights. These effects were strongest in women.

Discussion

The results suggest that female obligatory runners may be at increased risk for eating disorders.