No matter how you slice it, the costs of running can be high. But, wait, you say! Don’t you just… run? In some cases, yes. But gear, races, and other things come into play. Let’s check out some common expenses and how to make them work in your budget.
How To Fit Running Shoes Into Your Budget
The Reality of Shoe Pricing
Running shoes are pricey AND need to be replaced fairly frequently. Popular running shoes start at about $120 and range into the mid $200s, depending on brand, support, cushioning, and technology. My current pair of Brooks Adrenalines retails for $140 (up from $120 when I first started running in 2013). I spend the money because I have a pair of shoes that fits me and supports me in the ways I need. Cycling through shoes every 400-500 miles also helps keep me injury free as broken-down shoes can absolutely be harmful to your body.
How To Cut Your Cost
While I don’t recommend forgoing the shoe that works best for you, there are ways to bring down the price. First, buy last season’s model, if it works for you. Once new models come out, most running brand discount their shoes by about 20-30% to clear them out. You can also have luck purchasing heavily discounted shoes at big race expos, if you have the patience to do some hunting. Other ways to handle the increasing price of shoes is to have two pair on hand that you can cycle through to extend the life, or to carefully run a few more miles than recommended. Just be sure to listen to your body to avoid injury.
Running Clothes Are Expensive
The Reality Of Activewear Pricing
Activewear can be incredibly pricey, especially as new technologies in fit, fabric, and function emerge. A good pair of socks can start at $15, while some specialized cold weather gear can run in the $100s. As someone who lives in a tropical area, it’s important that my running clothes are wicking, fit my body well, and are lightweight enough to beat the heat. Those requirements don’t always come cheap. And as with shoes, it’s highly recommended to cycle through things like sports bras (which should never see their first birthday) and socks, in order for these items to perform at their highest levels.
How To Cut The Cost
You can beat some of the costs of activewear by shopping sales at your favorite retailers. I like Target and Old Navy for a lot of my shorts and tanks, but it’s not hard to wait for sales or promotions to get the items on deep discount. Check out eBay, Postmark and similar resale sites for great deals on pricey brands. While it’s tempting to have all the things, you really can get away with more of a capsule running wardrobe, with a variety of shorts, leggings, tanks, and outerwear, depending on where you live. Make sure you have a good laundry routine, that involves cold water, sports-specific detergent, and air drying to extend the life of the elastic, spandex, and fabrics. And only get what you need. In Florida, I don’t NEED the fancy cold weather gear. I just layer up what I have for the few days of frosty temps. It works fine, and saves me money.
Do You Really Need The Gear And Accessories?
The Reality Of Gear Pricing
If you need to cut back, a lot of running gear could be considered unnecessary. Is it fun to have the fanciest Garmin? Sure it is. But do you need all the functionality when you’re just running a casual three to five miles in your neighborhood with no regard for data? That’s a question only you can answer. There are so many little pieces of gear and accessories that are always cool to have, but if you don’t need them, keep it simple.
How To Cut The Cost
Instead of a specific running watch, you can always use a running app on your phone, or rely on your smartwatch for your miles and pace. It’s not as specific, but you can get some great stats from them. Again, look for older models and sales, especially around the holidays and Black Friday. Take great care of the items you do purchase to keep them functioning longer, rather than abusing them and needing to replace. Look for giveaways on social media, or again, check out resale options from friends in the running community on things like watches, heart rate monitors, headphones, and more.
But What About Races?
Do Races Fit Your Budget?
Friends, races are expensive. They are also a super fun part of the running experience. As pricing of everything increases, so too do races, and I am seeing registration fees that are bordering on high. Of course, your fee covers staff, permitting, law enforcement, shirts, medals, timing and all the thigns, but it can be quite pricey all the same.
How To Cut The Cost
Instead of registering for all the races, select one or two that matter the most to you. Register early when prices are lowest or look for discount codes from local groups or influencers. Local races tend to be cheaper than bigger brands, too. Instead of joining races, get a similar group experience by attending established ParkRuns or joining running clubs, where you can have the benefit of the people, without the price of admission.
Where Does Cross Training And Recovery Fit In?
Let’s Talk About It
In order to be a strong and healthy runner, you have to do things other than just run (gasp). You need to rest, stretch, and work out the other muscles groups in your body. These are non negotiables, especially if you want your running to continue as you age. Of course, we can utilize the gym, specialized fitness classes, massage therapists and spas to reach these goals, but the costs of these things can be staggering.
How To Cut The Cost
You can slash the cost of gym memberships or boutique fitness classes by working out at home or your community fitness center. Use workouts from social media or Pinterest if you need assistance coming up with moves. Instead of getting a massage, use rollers or hand held massagers. Heck, a tennis ball can even suffice for your calves, arches, and shoulders. Lay out a towel or mat and stretch at home, either on your own or with the help of a yoga session on YouTube.
Do you find that running can be expensive? How do you cut costs to make it manageable?
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So much for a simple sport, right? It can get expensive, especially races. I always look at last year’s shoe model and it is a great money saver.
Right? We would love for it to be simple! But there are ways to keep the price down and make it more manageable for everyone!
I don’t race much because it’s gotten really expensive! I signed up for 2 races this year when the price was low around the holidays. It makes me nervous to sign up early because I dont know if something will come up!