Date of Completion

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

Keywords

Recreational runners, Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the multidimensional motivational factors influencing recreational runners in Greater Manila, Philippines, using Self-Determination Theory (SDT), and to determine how intrinsic and extrinsic motivations vary according to demographic characteristics during the emerging "running era." A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed. The study was conducted at Filinvest City, UP Diliman Academic Oval, and Vermosa Sports Hub in Greater Manila. A total of 385 recreational runners were recruited through convenience and quota sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-made dichotomous questionnaire adapted from the Motives for Physical Activity Measure–Revised (MPAM-R) and the Sport Motivation Scale-II (SMS-II), administered through paper-based and online surveys. Ethical approval was secured before data collection, and descriptive statistics, Welch's t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. The study measured the intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors influencing recreational runners and examined differences across demographic variables. Findings revealed that recreational runners were primarily driven by intrinsic motivation, particularly psychological well-being, personal growth, and health maintenance. Improving mental health and emotional well-being emerged as the strongest intrinsic motivator, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle and running in safe environments were the strongest extrinsic motivators. Significant differences were found across sex and age groups, whereas running frequency and duration showed no significant differences. The findings support Self-Determination Theory by emphasizing the importance of intrinsic motivation in sustaining recreational running participation and underscore the need for safe, accessible, and supportive community environments to promote long-term physical activity.

First Advisor

Vivian Mojica-Vizcarra

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