Balancing Fitness and Budget – Any Tips for a Frugal Runner?

Running has always been my go-to for staying sharp, both physically and mentally, but lately, my wallet’s been feeling the strain. Between gear, race fees, and recovery tools, it’s easy to blow through a budget without realizing it. I’m curious how do you all keep costs down without sacrificing performance?

Are there any underrated budget-friendly running shoes that still hold up on long distances? I’ve burned through my last pair faster than expected, and dropping $150 every few months isn’t sustainable. And what about recovery any DIY tricks that work as well as fancy massagers or cryo sessions?

On a slightly unrelated note, does anyone else find it ironic that staying healthy can get so expensive? I’d love to hear how you balance fitness goals with financial sanity. Any hidden gems or hard-earned wisdom would be appreciated!