Participant Information Sheet
Study title
Psychology of Running
What is the purpose of the study?
The purpose is to investigate the effects of breathing and mindfulness on running. The information gained from this study may go some way to helping us understand factors underlying the effects of breathing and mindfulness on performance and how a runner can benefit from them during competition.
Why have I been chosen?
You have been chosen because you are aged 18 years or older, healthy, not injured or ill, and run regularly. These are the inclusion/exclusion criteria for participating in the study.
Do I have to take part?
No. Taking part in this study is entirely voluntary. If you would like to participate, you will be asked to read this information sheet and sign a consent form.
Can I withdraw?
You are free to withdraw at any time from initially volunteering to take part until the end of the study protocol and without giving a reason or incurring a penalty. Withdrawing from the study will not affect your studies or marks. If you decide to withdraw, any data collected on you will not be used and deleted. To withdraw from the study you simply have to let us know within 2 months of signing the consent form by contacting the researcher listed at the end of this document.”
What will happen if I decide to take part?
You will complete a short questionnaire at the start and end of the study. The questionnaire asks a range of questions relating to your thoughts, feelings, and actions in running and general movement. The questionnaire will take about 20 minutes to complete. The questionnaire is online meaning you may use any technical device with access to the internet. Once the questionnaire has been completed the first time, you will be randomly allocated to one of two group-based practices, where you will be taught to use some breathing or mindfulness techniques (e.g., breathe in/out, imagery, focus).
What are the potential benefits and risks of taking part?
By taking part you will help us to understand the effects of breathing and mindfulness on running, which may help runners perform better in sport in future. Upon completion of the final testing session, every participant will be entered into a prize draw to receive one of two £50 Amazon vouchers. No risks, other than ones that you confront in your everyday life as a runner, are foreseen.
Will my participation be confidential?
Yes. All the information about your participation in this study will be kept confidential. The data on your participation will be stored on a password-protected computer in a locked office. Only the researchers working on the project will have access to the information. You will not be identifiable in any publication or report as the data will be grouped together and all identifying information will be removed.
What will happen at the end of the research study?
The results of this study are expected to be published anonymously in a student report, however, names of participants will never be published. You will be given a copy of the study findings if you give us your contact details or if you contact us.
What if I have a problem or concern?
If you have any further questions about the study or any complaints please feel free to contact: Professor Christopher Ring, c.m.ring@bham.ac.uk, 01214144275.
Who has reviewed the study?
This study was reviewed by the Ethics Committee of School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Birmingham”
Contact for further information
For further information please contact: Professor Christopher Ring, c.m.ring@bham.ac.uk, 01214144275.