Running-app engagement and perceived training gains: sequential indirect associations through motivational affordances and runner motivation

Objective Running applications provide feedback, goal setting, rewards, and social interaction, yet app use is often discussed as though it directly improves objective performance. This study tested a sport psychology model linking running-app engagement to perceived training gains via perceived motivational affordances and runner motivation. Methods A quantitative, cross-sectional online survey was completed by 206 adult running-app users. Twenty-five five-point indicators were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling with 5,000 bootstrap resamples. A two-step assessment examined the measurement model and then the structural model, including direct, specific indirect, and total effects. Common-method considerations, construct-level cross-validated prediction, and three sensitivity analyses were also evaluated. Results Engagement was positively associated with motivational affordances (β = 0.707), motivation (β = 0.401), and perceived training gains (β = 0.401). Motivational affordances were positively associated with motivation (β = 0.496), and motivation was positively associated with perceived training gains (β = 0.499); all 95% bootstrap confidence intervals excluded zero. The indirect effect of engagement on perceived training gains through motivation was β = 0.200, while the sequential engagement–affordances–motivation–gains indirect effect was β = 0.175. The model explained 68.8% of the variance in motivation and 71.1% of the variance in perceived training gains. Conclusion Runners who integrated an app more strongly into their training also reported greater perceived motivational value, motivation, and training gains. Positive statistical indirect associations linked engagement to perceived training gains via runner motivation and the sequentially specified affordance–motivation route. Given the cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported perceived gains, these findings support an associational rather than causal interpretation.