Motivação, necessidades psicológicas e intenção de continuidade: um estudo sobre a experiência em corridas de rua no Brasil

Abstract

Background: Road running has consolidated itself as a mass sociocultural phenomenon in Brazil, closely associated with health promotion. Despite the proliferation of events, gaps persisted in understanding the psychological mechanisms that explain the adherence to and maintenance of this practice. Such gaps have become particularly relevant for a comprehensive understanding of runners' motivation in the Brazilian context. Objective: The general objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between the perceived quality of road running events and runners' continuance intention, considering the mediating role of psychological mechanisms grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and runner identity, as well as the moderating role of positive affects. Method: The research adopted a quantitative survey approach, applying a structured questionnaire to runners from various regions of Brazil. Data were analyzed via Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to test the relationships of the theoretical model. Main Results: The structural model evidenced a strong linkage between the core antecedents and outcomes of sports practice. Perceived event quality acts as the primary antecedent that qualifies the runner's experience, fostering high levels of engagement (physical, cognitive, and affective). This engagement, in turn, activates internal psychological mechanisms (needs satisfaction and identity) that culminate in the ultimate behavioral outcome of the model: continuance intention. This demonstrates that participant retention and loyalty inevitably begin with the structural excellence of the event. Alignment with the Concentration Area (Regionality and Management): The study investigated the context of road running using a nationwide sample, analyzing motivation and well-being factors to contribute to the advancement of sport management and promotion. Impact and Innovative Character in Intellectual Production: The research innovated by systematically integrating SDT constructs with event experience quality and affects, proposing a predictive structural model. Additionally, it filled an empirical gap by providing evidence from a still under-explored context. Economic, Social, and Regional Impact: The findings provided insights for event organizers and sponsoring brands to understand the drivers of loyalty, thereby optimizing investments. They also generated data for public administrators to formulate sports policies, making cities more attractive and healthier. Regional Implications: The study generated applied knowledge about the profile and challenges of Brazilian runners. The results contributed to the improvement of public policies and sport management, strengthening social capital and sports engagement in Brazil. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): The study investigated how sports practice impacted psychological well-being and promoted the continuity of a highly democratic activity. SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): It analyzed the experience in urban events, contributing to the discussion on more inclusive cities with universal access to active leisure.