by Todd Raubenolt

Created on: May 16, 2009

We are all looking for a few ways to cut back on expenses these days. Most runners do not want to sacrifice their training while cutting back though. Can you have your cake and eat it too? Absolutely! Running may not be the most expensive sport, but it all still adds up. The gear, gym fees and race charges can become too much for some, especially in these uncertain economic times. There are some fairly simple things you can do to allow you to fully enjoy running and not break the bank.

One of the largest expenses a runner encounters is their running clothing. Good technical gear can be quite pricey, and if you live in an area with changing seasons, you need to be prepared for the cold and the heat. This can add up quickly, especially if you like some of the newest high tech gear. One of the best ways to save on running clothes is to buy them off season. Most running stores will sell off their winter gear once spring hits and do the same for summer gear as fall approaches. You can also find great deals on gear by shopping discount running sites on the Internet. Roadrunner sports is a good one - just make sure you are already familiar with the gear you are getting, you may not be able to return from these sites (especially sale items). You can also find some great deals at the race expos. Vendors sell their gear at a sizable discount and they will sometimes cut even more towards the end of the event.

Shoes are the other large expense for runners. What you need to remember is that the highest priced big brand shoes may not mean they are better for you. Make sure you get fitted for the correct type of shoe. Once that is done, you usually have several options available that will work for you at various price points. Now that you know your shoe, stick with it! You can again find great deals on the Internet once you know the shoe is right for you. Many Internet sites will sell last years model at substantial discounts. A word of caution here: do not buy shoes only on price! An injury sustained as a result of wearing the wrong shoe will usually offset any price savings on the first trip to the doctor.

Runners who like to participate in races can also find ways to save. While most local races charge only nominal fees, large well advertised races can run between $50-$80 just to enter. These can add up, or worse yet prevent a runner from signing up. You can take some fairly easy actions to reduce these fees. Most local running clubs will

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