Getting into running looks straightforward at first. At minimum, you just need a decent pair of running shoes. But before long, gear begins to pile up — from specialized socks to celebratory beers to the trendiest GPS watch. According to a 2022 survey, the typical runner spends almost $1,800 a year on the hobby. What if you want to be part of the running community without emptying your wallet?
Running for Beginners on a Budget
Below are practical ways to trim expenses and return to the essentials so you can enjoy running without spending a fortune.
1. Save on shoes
The single most important buy for any runner is shoes. “The one item I really recommend not skimping on is a solid pair of running shoes,” said runner and personal trainer Caitlin Moyer. Visiting a neighborhood running shop can help you identify shoes that fit your feet and match your gait, which lowers injury risk and reduces costs down the road.
That doesn’t mean you must drop $300 on elite carbon-plated race shoes. “It’s easy to go overboard on shoes,” Moyer noted.
To score affordable shoes without losing quality, shop last season’s versions of models you like. For instance, the ON Cloudswift 3 versus the Cloudswift 4 — differences are minimal, yet the newer shoe often costs about $50 more. Unconventional colorways can also come with discounts — neon yellow performs just as well as plain black.
2. Buy cheap gear
Tempted by those $75 Tracksmith shorts? Hold off. Hunt for bargains on running apparel before splurging.
- Secondhand clothing marketplaces. You might find those Tracksmith shorts used and for half the price on Depop. If used items bother you, filter for “new with tags” or “new without tags.”
- Running store clearance sections. Local Fleet Feet shops — or better, independent specialty stores — usually maintain a clearance rack.
- Discount retailers. “Stores like Marshalls, Aldi or TJ Maxx often stock performance gear for a fraction of the retail cost,” Moyer said.
3. Skip the smartwatch
It seems like every running influencer sports a smartwatch, heart strap and bone-conduction earbuds. Put it into perspective: Roger Bannister didn’t wear a Garmin when he ran the sub-4-minute mile. Fancy tech isn’t required to improve.
Chances are you already own a useful tool for tracking runs: your smartphone. “Rather than splashing out on an expensive GPS watch, I rely on free apps like MapMyRun or Strava to record my runs,” Moyer said. Other solid free choices include Nike Run Club and Run With Hal — just avoid paid subscriptions.
Tip: If you really want the newest gadget, look for used or refurbished smartwatches on sites like eBay to save money.
4. Cut fuel costs
Packaged gels, chews and other convenience foods have grown more common as run fuel. They’re convenient but pricey. A single GU gel runs about $2, while a banana costs around $0.25.
If a banana feels impractical, other inexpensive alternatives exist. “I often turn to dried fruit or whip up my own energy bites,” Moyer said.
5. Reduce race fees
Back in 1974, registering for the Boston Marathon cost just $2. For qualified competitors in 2025, the entry fee was $250. Fees have risen, but you can still participate in races without overspending.
- Stay local. Entry fees are one expense; travel, lodging and dining add up. Choose races within driving — or even running — distance.
- Volunteer now, race later. “Volunteering at events sometimes earns you complimentary entry to future races,” Moyer said.
- Get in early. Hunt for early-bird pricing on events near you. For example, the Vermont 10 Miler charges $56 in January but $80 on race day in November.
- Swap formal races for “races.” A timed event with others can push you to a new best, but it doesn’t always have to be an official race. See if a Parkrun or another free community run is available nearby.
6. Join a crew
Running has grown more social, which carries mixed effects for your budget. Downside: you may be lured into post-run drinks or pastries. Upside: you may gain access to group discounts.
“Many running groups are low-cost or free and offer terrific community support,” Moyer said. Her local crew, the Badgerland Striders of Milwaukee, Minnesota, charges $25 annually. Members receive discounts at nearby running shops, reduced entry fees for club races, and organized training sessions.
Is it worth it? That depends on the runner. Examine your local group’s benefits and fees to determine whether the perks justify the cost.
7. Invest in what matters
Some readers probably winced at a suggestion or two. Maybe you love tracking every run on your watch. Maybe you can’t do a 10-miler without a GU gel.
That’s perfectly fine. Running is deeply personal. If you’re starting out, set a budget and allocate it toward the things that matter most to you. If you need to scale back later, you can. Ultimately, what you truly need to run is a reliable pair of shoes and an open road.
Contributor Maya Thompson is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Huffpost, Insider and other outlets.
