Scientists: Health care and personal goals are the main motivations of long-distance runners

Taking care of health and the desire to achieve personal goals are the most important motivations for people taking part in long-distance road runs – according to research by scientists from the Medical University of Silesia published in the journal Social Sciences.

The strongest motivations for running were health care and achieving personal goals. The lowest rated motivations were social recognition and the need to belong.

“The results show that for most participants, running is a more personal than social activity,” the authors of the publication emphasize.

Researchers noted significant differences in motivation among runners of different genders. Women more often cited health-related motivations and weight control, while men more often cited competitive aspects. Education and place of residence had no significant impact on the structure of motivation. However, BMI correlated only with weight control – individuals with a higher BMI more often declared a desire to lose weight as their primary reason for running.

The authors emphasize that regular running in urban spaces is not only an investment in individual health but also a part of a sustainable lifestyle. This activity enlivens public spaces, promotes ecological mobility, and fosters the integration of local communities.

According to the researchers, the research findings can help design health and urban policies.

"Promoting running should be diversified – for women, the health and weight management aspects may be more important, while for men, the competitive element may be more important. Creating safe infrastructure is also important: running paths, parks, and green corridors in cities," the researchers point out.

The study included 155 participants in the Poznań Marathon and Half Marathon. The Polish version of the MOMS (Motivations of Marathoners Scale) was used, which assesses various aspects of runners' motivation—from health, competition, and social needs. Data were collected via an online survey and then statistically analyzed, taking into account gender, education, place of residence, and body mass index (BMI).

The authors of the analysis are Prof. Mateusz Rozmiarek from the University of Physical Education in Poznań and Dr. hab. Mateusz Grajek from the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. (PAP)

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