BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS OF MARATHON TRAINING IN KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the barriers and facilitators of marathon training among non-elite athletes in Kazakhstan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a validated questionnaire on a purposely selected sample of 93 marathon runners who had marathon training in Kazakhstan. Data were analyzed using the R program, R studio. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were done. Results: Of a total of 93 participants, 46% of them were female runners and 53% were males. The mean age of participants is 29.85 and the standard deviation of 8.26. The vast majority of participants were Kazak and Muslim, 84%. Almost 91% of respondents live in urban areas. Prominent barriers to marathon training were Lack of time, Fear of getting injured, Bad weather conditions, Current health conditions, and no suitable facilities. Facilitators included enjoying and having fun, learning new skills and experiences, gaining more self-confidence, and making new friends and support from the family. A significant association was determined between occupation and health barriers, and personal beliefs/motivation(p<0.05). There was a statistically significant association between encouragement and residence, occupation, working with a coach, and support from the workplace(p<0.05). Conclusion: The results indicated that marathon runners may benefit from a supportive and sport-friendly environment. Therefore, marathon organizers and health promotion organizations should do enjoined work to develop new health promotion programs and create physical activity supportive groups to increase physical activity and marathon participation.