Motivational factors influencing participation in mass running events: a comparative study of females and males runners with disabilities

Abstract

Background While the motivations of individuals without impairments for participating in mass running events are well-documented, there is a lack of current research exploring why people with physical disabilities engage in these events. This study aims to identify the motives for participation among people with physical disabilities, taking into account factors such as sex, age (emerging adults vs. middle-aged adults), time since injury or illness, and type of movement during a mass running events (wheelchair vs. standing). Methods In total, 119 runners (51.3% male; mean age of 36 years) completed the Polish version of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale questionnaire. The study was carried out using the diagnostic survey method. Online survey forms were sent to 31 organizations from the Greater Poland region, including sports clubs for individuals with disabilities and runners’ clubs open to both individuals with and without disabilities. Results This study uncovered distinct motivational differences based on age and category of runner. For participants aged under 35 compared to those over 35, significant differences were noted in the motives of recognition (Z = − 2.834, p = 0.005) and affiliation (Z = − 2.534, p = 0.011). Similarly, when comparing wheelchair users with standing runners, notable disparities were observed in motives related to weight (Z = − 5.109, p = < 0.001) and personal goal achievement (Z = − 2.613, p = 0.009). There was also a significant positive relationship between the time since injury or illness and five out of nine subscales of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale (i.e. affiliation: r = 0.256, p = 0.007; recognition: r = 0.239, p = 0.011). The study found no correlation between gender and the motivations of people with physical disabilities for participating in mass running events. Conclusions When organizing and promoting running events for people with physical disabilities, it is important to consider factors such as the age of runners, time since injury, severity of disability, and mode of mobility. Additionally, it should be noted that no significant differences are found based on gender, indicating that both male and female participants are driven by similar motivations when it comes to participating in these events.