Keep on Running! An Analysis of Running Tracking Application Features and their Potential Impact on Recreational Runner's Intrinsic Motivation

TL;DR

This study investigates how features of running tracking apps influence recreational runners' intrinsic motivation, highlighting specific features that support motivation and potentially improve regular running habits.

Contribution

It provides an analysis of 22 popular running apps and identifies key features that enhance intrinsic motivation among recreational runners.

Findings

Features like goal setting and performance sharing boost motivation.

Providing guidance and variety in routines supports sustained running.

Acknowledgements and diverting activities positively impact intrinsic motivation.

Abstract

Physical activity is known to help improve and maintain one's health. In particular, recreational running has become increasingly popular in recent years. Yet, lack of motivation often interferes with people's routines and thus may prohibit regular uptake. This is where running tracking applications are frequently used to overcome one's weaker self and offer support. While technology artifacts, such as sport watches or running applications, usually count as extrinsic drivers, they can also impact one's intrinsic motivation levels. The aim of this study was thus to investigate upon the motivational impact of distinct features found within applications specifically used for running. Focusing on the 22 most famous running applications, a semi-structured, problem-centered interview study with $n=15$ recreational runners showed that intrinsic motivation is stimulated from diverting runners, aiding them in their goal setting, decreasing their efforts, improving and sharing their run performance, allowing them to receive acknowledgements, as well as providing them with guidance, information, and an overall variety in their training routines.