Validation of the Marathon Motivation Scale in Chile

The objective of this work was to validate the Marathon Motivation Scale (MOMS) for its application in the Chilean context. The study used a non-experimental, descriptive and transversal design. The sample was non-probability and intentional and was composed of 250 subjects (143 male and 104 female) runners who participated in the International Marathon of Viña del Mar with an average age of 29.8 (TD = 10.1) years. For the analysis of the data, an exploratory factorial analysis was carried out with free parameters, another one with seven factors fixed to the theoretical dimensions and a confirmatory factorial analysis with the items corresponding to the MOMS model. The validity and reliability of the Spanish version of the MOMS was checked in Chilean corridors. The original factorial model of 34 indicators grouped in seven factors did not present a good fit in the indicators of the exploratory factorial analysis. For this reason, seven indicators were eliminated that allowed a valid and reliable scale to be obtained to measure the reasons why Chilean runners participate in endurance races. The final model consists of 27 indicators distributed over the seven factors proposed by Ruiz and Zarauz (2011) in the Spanish version of the MOMS.