The impact of running on the mental health of recreational runners.

Recreational runners scored significantly higher on the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) compared to non-runners from the general population.

• The study included 80 respondents divided into two groups of 40: recreational runners from the Sanus Motus running school in Mostar and 40 respondents from the general population.
• The RSES (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale) was used to measure self-esteem.
• Research was conducted from March 1, 2024 to July 1, 2024.
• There were no statistically significant gender differences in scores on the RSES scale.

Recreational runners scored significantly lower (better) on all nine domains of the SCL-90 psychiatric symptoms questionnaire compared to the general population.

• The SCL-90 (Self-Rating Psychiatric Symptoms Scale) measures nine categories: somatization, obsessive-compulsive reactions, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, aggression, phobias, paranoia, and psychotic features.
• Recreational runners scored significantly better on all domains of the SCL-90 questionnaire.
• The abstract states recreational runners 'scored significantly higher on all domains of the SCL-90 questionnaire,' indicating lower psychiatric symptom burden.
• Both questionnaires (RSES and SCL-90) were completed by all 80 respondents.

Male respondents scored significantly lower on several SCL-90 domains compared to female respondents, indicating fewer psychiatric symptoms in males.

• Male respondents scored significantly lower on the Interpersonal Vulnerability, Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, PSDI, GSI, and PST domains of the SCL-90.
• There were no statistically significant gender differences in the remaining SCL-90 domains.
• Gender differences in the RSES scale were not statistically significant.
• PSDI (Positive Symptom Distress Index), GSI (Global Severity Index), and PST (Positive Symptom Total) are composite SCL-90 summary scores showing significant gender differences.

The study was conducted at a single running school (Sanus Motus) in Mostar with a sample of recreational runners compared to a general population control group.

• Research location: Sanus Motus running school in Mostar.
• Study duration: March 1, 2024 to July 1, 2024.
• Total sample size: 80 respondents (40 recreational runners, 40 general population controls).
• Two validated instruments were used: the RSES and the SCL-90.