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Unpacking the Success: An Ecological Systems Perspective on Distance Running Performance in Ethiopia

Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study employed a mixed-methods approach grounded in Ecological Systems Theory to investigate factors contributing to Ethiopia's dominance in distance running. Data were collected from 145 Ethiopian distance runners (87 male, 58 female; mean age = 22.4 ± 3.1 years) using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews ( n = 24), AQ1 and focus groups ( n = 8). Quantitative analysis revealed that, in multivariable logistic regression, primary education level (odds ratio [OR] = 5.80, q < 0.005, where q is the false discovery rate [FDR]-adjusted P-value), 10th/12th certificate (OR = 0.20, q = 0.016), normal body mass index (OR = 2.85, q = 0.021), and academy training (OR = 2.40, q = 0.044) maintained statistical significance at q < 0.05, while recovery practices (OR = 2.38, q = 0.051) and centre-based training (OR = 2.23, q = 0.060) remained significant at q < 0.10. Qualitative analysis yielded three core themes: (1) The Forged Resilience: Hardship as an Unseen Training Ground; (2) The Weight of a Nation: Community as Support and Pressure; and (3) The Crossroads: Tradition Versus Modernization in Training. Integration showed that quantitative predictors were profoundly shaped by socioeconomic realities, with the "primary education" finding explained by athletes' physically demanding rural lifestyles. Ethiopian distance running success is a multifaceted phenomenon embedded within a complex system of community support, organizational culture, and socioeconomic background. Sustaining success requires systemic interventions extending well beyond individual athletes to strengthen the entire ecosystem in which Ethiopian champions are made.
DOI: 10.1186/s40798-026-01139-1
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,290
OpenAlex ID: W7133212213
FWCI:
Cites: 44
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Related to: 10