Purpose. The aim of the study was to examine opinions of runners regarding the effects of ultra distance running on their health.Basic procedures. The study sample was a group of 54 runners, participants of the Polish Supermarathon Championships in Kalisz. The method of diagnostic poll was applied using author's own questionnaire.Main findings. The majority of extreme distance runners stated they experienced no health problems; keeping fit was their main motivation to run long distances and since taking up running their health had improved. At the same time 36% of the interviewees admitted that running longer distances than the marathon length may have a negative impact on their health.Conclusions. Proper understanding of the principles of amateur and professional sport is the basis of safe physical activity. Amateur sport activity is correlated with a healthy lifestyle and positively affects the physical and psychosocial aspects of health. Simple forms of motor activity should be popularized in Poland as well as professional sport.
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