Analyse sémiologique de l'activité d'un coureur de demi-fond en situation compétitive

Abstract

This study aims to identify the key elements of a middle-distance runner's activity during a 3000-metre indoor competitive race. It was carried out in reference to the analysis of the course of action theory (Theureau, 2004, 2006). Two types of data were collected: (a) observations and videotaped data during a 3000-metre indoor competitive race, and (b) the runner's spoken statements during an interview of self-confrontation made after the race and based on the viewing of the videotaped pictures of the race. The data were analyzed by studying (a) the runner's typical commitments and the evolution of these commitments during the race, and (b) the elements taken into account by the runner during the race. The analysis enabled us to identify five successive stages during the race, corresponding to the runner's various commitments. The transitions between the stages were analyzed on the basis of the elements selected by the athlete during the race. The discussion revolves around the conflicting selection of extrinsic and intrinsic representamens, the status of the planning of the race, and the collective aspect of the race.