How to Start Running on a Budget

Running for beginners seems simple enough. To start, the only thing you need is a pair of running shoes. But soon, you’ll want a lot more: from toe socks to post-run beers to the latest smartwatch. The average runner manages to spend nearly $1,800 per year on the sport, according to a 2022 survey. But what if you want to join the running community without spending a ton?

Running for Beginners on a Budget

Here’s how to cut costs and get back to basics so you can run without breaking the bank. 

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1. Save on shoes

The most important purchase a runner can make? Shoes. “The only thing I really believe you shouldn’t cut corners on is a good pair of running shoes,” said runner and personal trainer Caitlin Moyer. Your local running store can help you find a pair that fits your feet and suits your gait. This helps prevent injuries, which saves you money in the long run. 

Note: that doesn’t mean you need to spend $300 on top-of-the-line, carbon-plated supershoes. “You can go really over the top with shoes,” Moyer said. 

To find cheap running shoes without sacrificing quality, ask for last season’s version of your favorite model. What’s the difference between the ON Cloudswift 3 and the ON Cloudswift 4? Not much, but the new generation costs $50 more. Unpopular colorways can also knock down the price — and highlighter yellow shoes work just as well as classic black ones. 

2. Buy cheap gear

Tempting as those $75 Tracksmith running shorts may be, don’t add them to your cart just yet. Look for deals on running items in the proverbial bargain bin, first. 

• Secondhand clothing marketplaces. Maybe you can snag those Tracksmith running shorts – used and at half the price on Depop. If other people’s sweat grosses you out, filter by “new with tags” or “new without tags.” 
• Running store clearance sections. Your local Fleet Feet — or better yet, independent running store — almost certainly has a clearance rack.  
• Discount stores. “Marshalls, Aldi or TJ Maxx often have great performance gear for a fraction of the price,” Moyer said. 

3. Skip the smartwatch

It seems like every runfluencer wears a smart watch, heart monitor and bone-conducting headphones. Here’s a bit of perspective: Roger Bannister didn’t wear a Garmin when he broke the 4 minute mile. You don’t need fancy tech to get faster, either. 

Besides, you probably already own a device that can help with runs: a smartphone. “Instead of splurging on a pricey GPS watch, I use free apps such as MapMyRun or Strava to track my runs,” Moyer said. Other good options include Nike Run Club and Run With Hal. Just skip the paid membership option. 

Tip: If you have your heart set on the latest running tech, shop secondhand. There are plenty of refurbished smart watches on eBay ready to track your runs.

4. Cut fuel costs

Gels, chews and other pre-packaged foods are an increasingly popular way to fuel long runs. They’re also expensive. One portion of GU gel costs roughly $2. A banana costs roughly $.25. 

If a banana is too bulky, there are other options. “I’ll often use dried fruit or make my own energy bites,” Moyer said. 

5. Reduce race fees

In 1974, the entry fee to run the Boston Marathon was $2. For qualified runners racing in 2025, the fee was $250. Clearly, things have changed. Fees may have increased, but there are still plenty of ways to run races on a budget. 

• Stay local. Race fees are one thing. Hotels, meals out and flights are another. Stick to races within driving — or better yet, jogging — distance. 
• Volunteer now, race later. “Volunteering at a race sometimes earns you a free entry into a future one,” Moyer said.
• Get in early. Look for early bird discounts on races near you. The Vermont 10 Miler, for example, is $56 in January and $80 on race day, in November. 
• Swap races for “races.” There’s nothing like a timed run in a crowd to push you to a personal best, but does it have to be a race? Check if there’s a Parkrun or other free-to-join group run near you.

6. Join a crew

Running is becoming an increasingly social sport. This has pros and cons for your wallet. Con: you’ll be tempted to go for a post-run beer or pastry. Pro: you’ll probably get a group discount. 

“Many [run groups] are low-cost or free and provide an incredible support system,” Moyer said. Her local run group, the Badgerland Striders of Milwaukee, Minnesota, costs $25 per year. Members get discounts on local running stores, discounts on club-run races, and access to group training. 

Worth it? It depends on the runner. Read the fine print of your local run group to decide if the benefits outweigh the costs. 

7. Invest in what matters 

Any runner reading this probably balked at a tip or two. Maybe you love tracking your runs on your smart watch. Maybe you can’t face a 10-miler without your GU.

That’s OK! Running is personal. If you’re looking into running for beginners, it’s important to set a budget and spend it on what moves you. If you ever need to cut back, you can. At the end of the day, all you really need are running shoes on the open road. 

Contributor Ciara McLaren is a freelance writer with work in Huffpost, Insider and elsewhere.