Running is free—at least that’s what they say. However, plenty of new runners find the costs start adding up soon after beginning the hobby. First, they need new, better shoes. Next, they need more shirts and pants to keep up with laundry. Then, they need a hydration pack for those long runs. Among these expenses and others—gels, GPS watches, training programs, miscellaneous gear, and more—running can start to feel heavier on the wallet than most runners expect. But does it really have to be this way?

Though there is certainly merit in buying high-quality, performance-boosting gear, most casual runners don’t need so many bells and whistles. Serious running isn’t free, but it can be inexpensive. Keep reading to explore some thrifty ways to make your running hobby cheaper.

De-Influence Yourself

The internet is jam-packed with thousands of companies and influencers who want you to buy more. There’s nothing wrong with this; it’s their business and their living. However, when faced with a barrage of ads for innovative running products, your best move is to take a step back.

You don’t need 10 pairs of shoes, a $60 running top, or even a GPS watch. All you really need to spend on as a casual runner is a quality pair of shoes.

Hit Up Your Local Thrift Store

The racks at your local thrift store are probably loaded up with affordable, perfectly functional running gear. Sure, you won’t find hydration packs, but you will find an abundance of sweat-wicking shirts, athletic shorts and pants, and sport bras. You could leave your shopping trip with a running outfit for every day of the week for under $150. 

Save Money and the Earth

Not only does buying second-hand athletic wear help curb your spending, but it also lowers your environmental footprint. You probably already knew this, but did you know that the world produces 92 million tons of textile waste each year?

A ton is equal to 2,000 pounds, and adult male bison can weigh up to this amount. That means that the world is currently producing textile weight equal to roughly 92 million full-grown, large male bison. 

Don’t buy a bison—go thrifting! 

Don’t Sign Up for Too Many Races (Or Any)

One of the joys of running is getting to do it with other people, and that joy becomes even greater when there’s a medal involved. However, races are expensive. From entry fees to travel costs to merch, a race will cost you at least $100, and usually way more.

So consider signing up for one race a year as a goal to work toward and something to look forward to without breaking the bank. And if you’re the kind of person who is perfectly fine running unofficial 5ks, half marathons, and marathons, then don’t feel pressured to pay for races. Again, these races are fun and empowering, but they come with a price that you don’t have to pay.

Track Your Pace With Your Phone

It’s true that a GPS watch makes tracking your distance, pace, heart rate, and more incredibly convenient. However, this fairly recent invention isn’t necessary. That’s great news for you because GPS watches cost a pretty penny, averaging about $300. 

Instead, track your pace with your phone. If you have pants with pockets, a fanny pack, or a hydration pack, you can ergonomically carry your phone with you as you run, and it will track your mileage. You won’t get information on your vitals, so if that’s important to you, that’s something to keep in mind. 

You can also go old school and run with no tracking device at all. If it worked for runners for hundreds of years before the invention of the smart watch, it can work for you too.

Buy Gummy Candy for Fuel or Make Your Own

Mid-run fuel isn’t the most expensive thing ever; a pack of energy chews currently costs about $2. Still, this can add up, especially if you do long-distance running. If you go through 5 packs of gels on a long run, that workout effectively cost you $10 dollars.

Fortunately, candy can work as an effective supplement to your energy chew and gel arsenal. Though chews and gels have overall more carbs, electrolytes, and calories (all of which you need for fueling), you can definitely supplement with gummy candy. Gummy bears, Life Savers, and Swedish Fish are all popular among runners. For extra electrolytes and carbs, you can supplement with pretzels and/or table salt. 

Or, you can make your own gels! I’ll be back with a blog on different gel recipes to try. Until then, a quick online search will reveal some tasty, nutritionally balanced options for you to try.

Final Thoughts

I hope you found some inspiration with these thrifty ways to make your running hobby cheaper. Remember—running isn’t free, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. As long as you have a high-quality pair of shoes, the thrift store and your own creativity can take care of the rest. Leave a comment if you have any other frugal running hacks I should know about!