Running ranks among the most budget-friendly ways to stay fit. Typically, the main purchase you’ll need is a dependable pair of running shoes.
Oh — and race registrations.
Signing up for races is my go-to motivation to remain consistent with training. I adore race day: the communal energy, the supporters lining the course and the thrill of hitting a new personal best (PR) gets me pumped.
That said, races can be pricey. Generally speaking, the longer the event, the steeper the registration fee.
If you’re a fellow race enthusiast, here are smart ways to reduce costs for your next event. If you’re just starting to run and have been thinking about doing a race, money shouldn’t be the barrier to reaching your goal.
Whether you’re aiming for a 5K or a full marathon, try these money-saving strategies.
1. Sign Up as a Group
A lot of events give discounts to groups who register together.
My spouse and I are planning to run the Atlanta Halloween Half Marathon this year. The standard entry fee is $75 per person, which is fairly common.
We’re attempting to recruit a couple of friends to join us, because the price drops to $70 per person if we register as a group of four or more.
$5 may not seem huge, but it adds up when you’re a couple signing up for two or three races annually, as we intend to do.
Also, since it’s a Halloween race, costumes are part of the fun! Costumes are even better in a group of four. Here’s our idea: Spongebob, Patrick, Squidward and Mr. Krabs.
2. Register Early
Many events reward early registrants. For instance, if you register the day before the OUC Orlando Half Marathon this December, you’ll pay $100. Register online before September 30 and the fee drops to $80.
Those who planned way ahead and signed up a full year in advance paid only $70!
3. Stick with One Race Organizer
Although many races are independently run, several companies organize multiple events throughout the year. If you stick with a single organizer, they often offer perks for returning participants.
One example is A Better World Running, which puts on races across Southern California. Run four of their events and your fifth entry is free. A complimentary race? Count me in!
4. Volunteer
If you adore race day as much as I do, have you thought about volunteering at an event?
Staging a smooth race needs lots of help, so organizers are always seeking volunteers to hand out water, manage packet pick-ups or assist with food stations.
Race 13.1 compensates volunteers with “race bucks” that can be used toward future Race 13.1 entries. For instance, helping with packet distribution earns 10 race bucks per hour; serving as a course monitor yields 20 race bucks per hour. One race buck equals one dollar.
By the end of your shift, you could have enough to cover a 5K or even a longer event!
Race 13.1 hosts 5Ks, 8Ks, 10Ks and half marathons nationwide, so you’ll likely find one nearby.
5. Hunt for Coupon Codes
RetailMeNot lists numerous discount codes for various races. It’s simple to search for events in your region, and the site often posts deals for popular series.
For example, get $5 offThe Color Runand $15 off theRock ’n’ Roll Marathon series.
6. Pass on the Extra Merchandise
Sometimes a race entry includes a complimentary shirt. But some events let you opt in and charge an additional $10, $15 or even $20 for the official tee. Skip purchasing the extra shirt to keep your registration cheaper.
7. Choose Local Events
My running crew and I have a tendency to pick races in destinations we’d like to explore. My college roommate and I traveled from northern Georgia to Nashville, Asheville, Eastern Tennessee and even Washington D.C. for events.
Although traveling to new cities is fun, transportation and lodging expenses accumulate quickly. Look for races closer to home.
8. Consider Virtual Races
If the in-person race atmosphere isn’t crucial for you and you’re focused on achieving a goal or a PR, think about doing a “virtual race” in your own neighborhood.
Virtual races require you to record your time, which some runners dislike. However, you avoid travel costs and your medal is mailed to you!
Virtual Run Events and Virtual Strides specialize in virtual events. These platforms are excellent for runners who want to support causes, since a portion of registration fees often goes to charity!
Virtual events are typically far less expensive than location-based races. The Eyes of the Dragon Half Marathon costs only $29!
If one of your New Year’s goals was to tackle a major race, don’t let fees hold you back. Visit Running in the USA to locate events in your area, and use one or more of these tips to make race day kinder to your wallet. Also consider finding cheap running shoes to cut costs further while preparing for race day.
