This study investigated the effect of ultra-trail running on state mindfulness and perceived body boundaries. We hypothesized that ultra-trail running would induce an altered state of consciousness characterized by increased mindfulness and a dissolution of body boundaries. Participants were 36 ultra-trail runners who completed the State Mindfulness Scale and the Perceived Body Boundaries Scale before and after an ultra-trail race. Results showed a significant increase in mindfulness states and a decrease in perceived body boundaries from before to after the race. These results suggest that ultra-trail running promotes a mindful state and alters body perception. Furthermore, years of running experience, but not performance level or training frequency, predicted a greater increase in mindfulness allowed by the race. This study provides novel insights into the interplay between strenuous physical activity, mindfulness, and body perception, suggesting that ultra-trail running may induce an experiential state with similarities to meditative practices.

This study investigated the effect of ultra-trail running on state mindfulness and perceived body boundaries. We hypothesized that ultra-trail running would induce an altered state of consciousness characterized by increased mindfulness and a dissolution of body boundaries. Participants were 36 ultra-trail runners who completed the State Mindfulness Scale and the Perceived Body Boundaries Scale before and after an ultra-trail race. Results showed a significant increase in mindfulness states and a decrease in perceived body boundaries from before to after the race. These results suggest that ultra-trail running promotes a mindful state and alters body perception. Furthermore, years of running experience, but not performance level or training frequency, predicted a greater increase in mindfulness allowed by the race. This study provides novel insights into the interplay between strenuous physical activity, mindfulness, and body perception, suggesting that ultra-trail running may induce an experiential state with similarities to meditative practices.