Motivations for Long-Distance Running in the Context of Sustainable Urban Lifestyle: A Case Study of Poznan

Bartosz Antkowiak, Milena Michalska, Mateusz Grajek and Mateusz Rozmiarek ()
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Bartosz Antkowiak: Department of Sports Tourism, Faculty of Physical Culture Sciences, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznan, Poland
Milena Michalska: Department of Sports Tourism, Faculty of Physical Culture Sciences, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznan, Poland
Mateusz Grajek: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
Mateusz Rozmiarek: Department of Sports Tourism, Faculty of Physical Culture Sciences, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznan, Poland

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 9, 1-13

Abstract: The increasing popularity of long-distance running in urban areas reflects a convergence of personal health goals and sustainable urban living practices. However, understanding the psychological drivers behind such behaviors remains essential for designing effective health promotion strategies. This study investigated the motivations of 155 participants of the Poznan Marathon and Half Marathon using the validated Polish version of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale (MOMS). Data were collected via an online survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and MANOVA to assess differences across gender, education, place of residence, and BMI. The highest-rated motivations were personal goal achievement and health orientation, aligning with the values of sustainable urban living. The least important were recognition and affiliation. Women reported significantly higher motivations related to health and weight control, while men showed a greater tendency toward competition. Education level and place of residence did not significantly affect motivational profiles. BMI was positively correlated only with weight-related motives. The findings highlight the importance of tailoring physical activity promotion to demographic differences, particularly gender and BMI. Supporting long-distance running through inclusive, personalized strategies may enhance its role in fostering healthier and more sustainable urban communities.

Keywords: running; half marathon; marathon; sport; physical activity; health; weight concern; competition; Poznan; Poland (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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