The aim of this study was to examine personal running histories of one successful and one less successful Swedish female runner. The focus was on finding the motivating and demotivating factors in becoming a runner, and major differences between the successful and the less successful runner. The theoretical frameworks- transtheoretical model and selfdetermination theory- were used as guides when conducting two narrative interviews. Data analysis was based on the recommendations of the Narrative Oriented Inquiry (NOI) model. Sjuzet and fabula, holistic content and categorical content analyses were the three analyses chosen out of the six recommended in the NOI model. The holistic content analysis resulted in narratives about each participant life background and previous training, personal history to become a runner, and present time and future plans for running. The categorical-content analysis revealed eight motivating factors for running, four demotivating factors for running and three themes contrasting the participants. Results are discussed in relation to the theoretical frameworks and previous research.