From Motivation to Profile: An Inclusive Approach to Runners of the Salamanca Half Marathon

Abstract

Participation in long-distance sporting events has experienced sustained growth over recent decades, attracting a diverse range of runner profiles. Existing literature identifies both intrinsic motivations, such as well-being and self-efficacy, and extrinsic motivations, including social interaction and recognition. This study pursues two primary objectives: first, to identify a motivational structure based on four key dimensions: sport-related hedonism, socialization, competition, and inclusion; and second, to segment participants according to this structure. A quantitative methodology was used, based on a self-completed questionnaire with 646 valid responses and a subsequent exploratory factor analysis and cluster analysis. The findings reveal a consistent four-factor motivational structure, of which three dimensions were significant for segmentation. This enabled the identification of three distinct runner profiles: Inclusive and Recreational Runners, Hedonistic and Social runners, and Emotionally Independent Runners. The discussion highlights that emotional, social, and inclusive motivations exert a greater influence than competitive motives. The study concludes that understanding these motivational drivers can inform the design of more inclusive, satisfying, and personalized events. Practical implications are discussed for event organizers, sports clubs, and public administrators.