I’m Lifehacker’sresident marathon runnerand senior finance writer.
And now, I’m merging my two worlds.
Running is often touted as one of the most accessible sportsjust lace up and go, right?
Last week I broke down what it looks like toinvest in proper running gear.
And now, I’m turning my eye to the world of races.
You might think you’ll never get into races.
Then you get coerced into running a 5k for charity or something.
Then you feel the high of crossing the finish line.
So let’s take a look at the financial commitment involved in running organized races.
Early bird registration can also save 15-30% off standard entry fees.
Many casual runners also use free training plans available online rather than paying for coaching.
Keep in mind, a lot of these are upfront costs for investing in gear that will last years.
For instance, you probably won’t be buying anew smartwatchannually.
The destination racer
Those who combine their love of running with travel face the highest costs.
International races may also require additional expenses like travel insurance and vaccinations.
Fun fact: “Ultra marathon” refers to any distance longer than a marathon.
A 30-miler and an 100-miler would both be called ultras.
Naturally, ultra runners and trail enthusiasts face unique cost considerations for specialized gear requirements and remote race locations.
Many require specific safety equipment like emergency blankets, whistles, and first aid supplies.
Remote race locations can also increase travel costs significantly.
Register early: Take advantage of early bird pricing.
Seek out package deals: Some race series offer discounted entries when you sign up for multiple events.
Shop end-of-season sales: Stock up on gear when prices drop.
Consider virtual races: These typically have lower entry fees and no travel costs.
