How long distance trail running affects the lived experience of women employees' productivity at work

Even though work-related stress has long been acknowledged in the literature, few studies have explored how women employees (on all levels) might decrease their own stress levels and therefore become more productive in their work environment. The primary research question was: What are the changes in perception and attitudes toward work of women who are long-distance trail runners?;This hermeneutic phenomenological study explored how long-distance trail running affects experienced women runners (i.e., experience with road and trail running) who are employees in an organization. Seven female employees who had completed at least one road marathon and one trail event were invited to participate. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. Participants assisted as co-researchers by providing feedback regarding a draft description of their individual lived experience and overall themes of the entire study.;Results indicated that distance trail running provides increased job stress relief and has a positive impact on work-related productivity. The 14 effects that were shared by at least four out of seven women are presented. Several of the themes were more meaningful for some of the woman than for others. Effects that were considered to be more of an outcome from distance trail running then road marathoning are also given. Sample changes include increased self-efficacy at work, more positive attitude, enhanced performance, better time management and organization skills, greater discipline and mental focus with career goals, and increased problem-solving.