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How to Start Running Without Spending Too Much

Running can keep you healthy and happier while saving money in the long run! (Pun intended).

The perfect time to lace up those running shoes and hit the trails is always NOW! Mild temperatures, blooming flowers and longer days create the ideal environment for reinvigorating our bodies. Running rejuvenates us after a cold winter and lifts our spirits - connecting us with nature and setting the stage for a healthier, happier you this year. Let's get out there and breathe in that fresh air and embark on a running journey!

Running is a great way to get fit and stay healthy. It can also help you avoid many health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Running can also help you lose weight, which means it's one of the best exercises for keeping your body in shape!

Running is a low-impact exercise that doesn't stress the joints or muscles too much. This makes it easier to start running than other sports like basketball or soccer because there's no risk of injuring yourself while playing those games (unless they're contact sports).

Just because you want to pound the pavement in the right gear (like Nike, Under Armour or Hoka ONE ONE), doesn’t mean you need to abandon your savvy online shopping ways. You can get a new outfit to get you fit and get some speedy savings plus cash back without even breaking a sweat.

Here are some tips from Hoopla for a frugal runner without all the runaround...

Big brand shoes don't have to cost a fortune.

Most people can get by with just one pair of running shoes per year. If your shoes are worn out, you should replace them. Don't have any running shoes at all? They don't have to cost a ton especially with the perfect promo code or daily deal.

Here are some things to consider when buying running shoes:

Fit

The fit is one of the most important aspects of running shoes. Running shoes should be snug enough to keep your feet secure and prevent them from slipping out of place during your run. However, they should also not be too tight as this will cause blisters and painful rubbing on your feet. To be able to find the best fit for your running shoes, you will need to try them on in a store and walk around in them while they are being worn by others who have bought the same type of shoe.

Style

Style is another important consideration when buying running shoes. You can also choose between different designs and materials, such as breathable mesh or padded soles, for extra comfort when running outdoors on hot days. Consider the type of terrain you'll be running on and whether you need extra support (such as arch support).

Price range

When shopping for new running shoes, always remember that there is no such thing as an "ideal" price range when it comes to running shoes. Prices are dependent on how the shoes are crafted and the materials used. But you can often get good shoes for under $100.

The best brands are often on sale, and some of the best deals on shoes are from Hoopla partner Running Room.

Exercise clothing is multi-purpose with multi-savings.

Running clothes are practical and multi-purpose, making them a good investment. You can use them for other activities, like yoga, CrossFit, walking, hiking or cycling. (They're also great for remote working, not just running. 😉)

However, when you are running, comfort is key! You don't want to feel like your underwear is chafing or bunching up against you while you're out pumping those legs! Runderwear provides ultimate comfort with their running underwear that's lightweight, soft, and made from a fabric that stretches as you move.

Use the pavement and save your knees (while you’re saving on shoes).

You can run for free on the pavement. And contrary to popular belief, pavement is actually better for your knees and hips!

You might think running on concrete would make you more likely to get hurt, but research shows this is not true. In fact, runners who run on a treadmill are more likely to sustain injuries than those who run outside on grass or pavement. The reason? When you step on a sidewalk, the pressure is less than it would be on dirt or grass because of the pavement. When your foot hits the ground, there is less shock absorption and less impact on your joints (which means fewer injuries).

Running is family fun time and there’s a deal for everyone on your team.

As parents, we want our kids to be active and healthy. And while running isn't the only way to get there, it can be a great option if you're looking for something that's more fun than just another trip to the gym! In addition, running is a great way to spend time with the family. There are many ways to make running fun for kids, including:

  • Taking them for a run around your neighborhood or on a trail together. If you have access to an indoor track, that's even better!

  • Having races with them at home or at school (the kids will love this one)

  • Getting matching gear together so they feel like they're part of the action too!

  • Treat it like a scavenger hunt! Create a list of things to spot on the run and see who finds them all first.

  • Go on a long run with relaxing stops along the way to make a day of it

Nike has some great discounts on running gear for kids right now!

Keep your gear simple, light and always at peak savings.

It's easy to get caught up shopping for new gear. But, if you're new to running or just trying to get back into it after a break, you want to keep things simple. Those fancy-looking running shoes are cool but can also be expensive!

Here are 3 Don'ts to keep in mind when shopping:

  • Don't buy the latest and greatest gear until it goes on sale.

  • Don't buy something just because it's on sale, make sure you'll wear it.

  • Don't buy something just because it's cheap, you want it to last at any price.

Always take into consideration the fit, style, and materials before making a purchase.

Eat healthier (and cheaper).

Ready to commit to your running routine? You'll want to make sure that your body is getting all the nutrients it needs so that it can function at its best while burning through those calories.

One great way to do this is by eating fresh food rather than processed foods or fast food--this means buying things like fruits and vegetables from farmers' markets instead of supermarkets whenever possible.

Hoopla partner Thrive Market makes healthy living attainable and economical for everyone, with shipping discounts on purchases over $49.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start running today!

Sign up at Hoopla today for free and set yourself free to explore over 50,000 daily deals across over 5,000 brands (with your favorite apparel and workout brands too).

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