Make running afforable
TEN easy ways to help save $$$ and make running more affordable for everyone.
When I first started running again as an adult, I was under the impression that running was an inexpensive sport and that all I needed was a pair of high-quality running shoes 🤣 While there is some truth to this perception, the costs associated with long distance training (gear, races, travel, massages, running food, etc.) can really add up. If you are new to running, please don’t let some of these costs scare you away!
As a financial advisor, I am always looking for ways to creatively save money. Here are TEN easy ways to help save $$$ and make running more affordable for everyone.
10. Don’t skimp on your shoes. Just trust me on this one. If you skimp on running shoes, it will cause several other issues down the road that end up costing you both time and money. Go to your local running stores and get professionally fitted to find the right shoe for YOU! Our local favorite running stores are Blue Ox and Scheels.
To help your shoes last longer, take out the insoles to dry after wet or hot runs and have an older pair on hand to run in on spring days full of puddles. Some people also rotate running shoes to help them last longer!
9. Traveling to an out of town race? Find a group of friends to share travel costs. Share in the costs of gas and lodging and create lasting memories that will bond you for life. One 24 hour getaway to a race is equivalent to a week away at camp!
8. Eat REAL food during your training runs and races. While expensive gu’s and gummies are always an easy option, they add up quickly. Instead, make your own food or purchase less expensive options. When in doubt, ask a trail runner what they eat! Some favorite go-to items are fruit snacks, trail mix, boiled and salted red potatoes, or peanut butter sandwiches.
7. Choose running gear wisely. You don’t need all the expensive running gear. Research and ask around before making an expensive gear purchase. When you invest in a high-quality pair of winter leggings, a running watch, socks, or beverage holder, look for something that will LAST and that you will LOVE. If you don’t love it, don’t buy it!
6. Prioritize your running goals. Is your goal to run a 5k every month? Two half-marathons a year? To have fun? To relieve stress? To qualify for Boston? When you know “Why” you run and “What” your goals are, you can prioritize where to put your money. If it doesn’t get you closer to your goal, don’t do it!
5. Use a foam roller. I know we know we are supposed to do this as runners, but not that many actually do it on a regular basis. Rolling out your muscles regularly will help prevent injuries and save you money and time in the long run.
4. And while we’re talking about foam rolling, don’t forget your strength training! Running injuries are oftentimes caused by a weakness somewhere. Hips, core, and glutes are some common areas of weakness that can lead to injuries.
3. Buy second hand running clothes. You never know what you may find at local secondhand stores or on Facebook Marketplace. Know what you’re looking for and need before going and check the stores during popular spring-cleaning months or before school starts in the fall. Many people are cleaning out their closets and making local donations in the fall and spring.
2. Ask for race entries as birthday, Christmas, Mother’s or Father’s Day, or anniversary gifts! Your friends and family want to buy you something that you will love and want.
1. Register early for races. If you plan out the races ahead of time, you can save a lot of money. Many races offer steep discounts or early registration savings if you register 6+ months before a race. Write down registration dates in your calendar so that you don’t forget to register!
Sarah McCutcheon
Eau Claire Marathon Ambassador
