Recreational climbers are more conscientious than recreational athletes–a case control study

Abstract

Background Physiological characteristics of climbers have been extensively studied, while the personality of climbers remains poorly understood. Personality research in sports is an established field, predicting long-term success as well as short-term behavior. The goal of our study was to examine recreational climbers’ personality and gain a better understanding of what makes them reach new heights. Methods We analyzed a cohort of 50 recreational climbers and 50 non-climbing athletes (control) regarding their personality characteristics. We assessed the BMI, the self-reported climbing grade, and the years of climbing experience. To evaluate the personality of recreational climbers and athletes, we used the German version of the Big Five Inventory (BFI-2), which summarizes the personality in five main categories. Results Recreational climbers scored significantly higher in conscientiousness than non-climbing athletes (p = 0.04), there was no significant difference between the other four main personality traits. Female climbers scored significantly higher in conscientiousness than male climbers (p = 0.02), while female athletes scored higher in openness than male athletes (p < 0.01). The climbing group displayed a small but significant negative correlation between conscientiousness and BMI (r = -0.39; p < 0.01). Conclusion In conclusion, the personality of recreational climbers and recreational athletes differs in conscientiousness, with the climbers showing higher scores. Regarding gender, we found higher levels of conscientiousness in female climbers and higher openness in female athletes in comparison to their male counterparts. A negative correlation between BMI and conscientiousness of the climbers was detected.

Athletic identity and discretionary effort at work

“…For instance, the time requirements of team practices, individual workouts, film study and other demands during the work necessitate that student-athletes learn to manage their time carefully and overcome the temptation to procrastinate completing schoolwork (Pellegrini & Hesla, 2018). Similarly, recreational athletes such as weekend rock climbers tend to exhibit higher levels of conscientiousness, a personality trait associated with self-regulation (Steinmetz, Assmann, Hubert, & Saul, 2022).…”