Modeling social support and life satisfaction in running groups through stress management

The fast-paced and stressful conditions of modern life have increased the need for social and emotional resources that enhance individuals’ psychological resilience. Leisure activities, especially group-based physical exercises, offer significant social and psychological benefits. Among these, recreational running groups stand out, positively influencing participants in various ways. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of stress management in the relationship between recreational runners’ perceived social support and life satisfaction using structural equation modeling analysis. A predictive correlational survey model was employed. Data were collected using the Leisure Time Stress Coping Strategies Scale, the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, and the Life Satisfaction Scale. The study included 361 recreational athletes (147 women, 214 men) participating in running events organized in Mersin and its surroundings. Prior to analysis, z-values and Mahalanobis distances were calculated to assess normality, and VIF and tolerance values were examined to check for multicollinearity. The measurement model was tested via confirmatory factor analysis, and goodness-of-fit values were evaluated. Structural relationships between variables were then examined using structural equation modeling. Social support significantly predicted life satisfaction (β = 0.37). When stress management was included, the predictive effect of social support on life satisfaction decreased (β = 0.33) but remained significant. Social support also significantly predicted stress management (β = 0.26). These results indicate that stress management partially mediates the relationship between social support and life satisfaction. Perceived social support and effective stress management strategies are important factors in enhancing life satisfaction among recreational runners. These findings highlight the role of social and psychological resources in promoting well-being in leisure contexts.