Fun runs: do they achieve their objectives?

Abstract

Fun runs are becoming increasingly popular as a means of attempting to attract individuals to participate in exercise. This study evaluated the characteristics of those who compete in such runs. Of a total of 819 runners over two years of the same event, 191 returned completed questionnaires. The results revealed that the vast majority of the runners were aged below 47, more socio-economically advantaged, frequent vigorous exercisers, and participators in previous organised running events. In this particular run, the aim of targeting a large percentage of infrequent exercisers was not achieved. Consequently, the promotional strategies need to be reviewed, or alternative interventions designed.