While female long-distance runners are considered to have strong body dissatisfaction and body concerns, body-image research that incorporates detailed anthropometric and body composition parameters is still limited. The present study therefore investigates the physical characteristics and body image of Japanese female long-distance runners and explores the factors that influence their body image. Detailed anthropometric and body composition assessment using a dual-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (DFBIA) was conducted on 30 Japanese female university long-distance runners. In addition, a questionnaire that included the Body Satisfaction Scale (BSS) and the Ben-Tovim Walker Body Attitudes Questionnaire (BAQ) was administered. On average, the participants had relatively low body mass index (BMI) and percentage body fat (%BF) (BMI: 18.3 ± 1.6 kg/m²; %BF: 19.7 ± 4.4%), but about 50–60% of them perceived themselves as being fat or having an excessive level of %BF. Their BSS scores were not associated with their measured physique. However, the anthropometric variables of the limbs were associated with the BAQ and its subscales. There was no single source that the majority referred to obtain information on their body, and performance was the only reason for their increased body concern. In order to better understand the factors that influence their body dissatisfaction and the effects of providing accurate information on behaviour modification, further investigation is warranted.

This case study presented information on a female athlete who did not match the trends observed (anthropometry and energy intake) in previous female athlete triad studies. The participant had amenorrhea and joined our research project at 19 years of age. This case study focused on the participant’s personal history related to diet and practice since she started long-distance running until this study through interviews. It explored her approach to decision-making and her behavior regarding running during her high-school days. The response to oral medication treatment for menarche, which started in her first year of college, was also examined. This practical case study observed the participant in detail to obtain easily comprehensible real-life health-related data on female athletes and the significance of proper athletic conditioning education from a young age.