I agree that running is a very economical way to stay fit, and if it’s something you enjoy (or can generally appreciate as a net positive in your daily life), it can be a great lifelong activity. That said, I’m continually surprised by how much some people spend on the “stuff” of running — fuel belts, energy gels, the newest model shoes, expensive tech tops and bottoms, and run-tracking gear. Not to mention the race entry fees!
As with so many activities, running can be as expensive a pastime as you choose to make it.
Some ways I keep costs down, without jeopardizing my enjoyment or risking injury are:
Buying an older model running shoe — for example, if I’ve run a pair of Mizuno Wave Rider 17s into the ground and know they fit well, I’ll buy another pair even after newer models have been released. There are so many online deals on older model running shoes, especially if you aren’t picky about the color (less trendy color combos tend to be most discounted).
Buying running clothes from off-price department stores like Marshall’s, where you can still find sweat wicking fabrics and quality construction without paying Lululemon prices.
Signing up for smaller, local races rather than bigger, more expensive ones. This might be harder to do in a big city like New York, where NYRR seems to reign supreme, but I run five to ten local races a year, ranging from 5Ks to marathons, and nearly all are less than $30 per race (and further discounted if you register early). Half and full marathons tend to be more expensive, but you still save a lot by choosing smaller races over those in big cities!
