WEBSITE WEDNESDAY: BIBS CUT COSTS

“THE  $1600 MARATHON”, by Jen Miller for the New York Times WELL blog is quite an eye opener as to the cost of competing. It was surprising that for a few items she paid nothing or less than expected, for various reasons, so the cost could have been greater.  For example, due to her job as a self-employed writer of running-related articles she had received a copy of a training program book at no cost that she had used for an earlier marathon. She early registered early for her race and had a discount available. The nearness to home of the race and some family help lowered transportation and lodging costs significantly.

There were several items/services that to some would seem frivolous expenses. Having only experienced training and running a half marathon myself, I’ve learned that the anxiety involved in trying to prepare oneself physically to compete and not sustain injury on a long distance race can change perspective on what’s a basic need versus a luxury.
 
In her own words Miller describes ONE item that EarnedRuns bibs can supply at no cost, INTERMEDIATE RACES. “Racing shorter distances while training for a marathon provides a check-in to see how you’re doing speed-wise (and psychologically) and breaks up the monotony of training. I also use shorter races to test out what I will wear on marathon day to make sure it all works. During this training cycle, I ran two 5Ks and two 10-milers. Cost: $235.40. “

The website HOME page has a suggested use for EarnedRuns bibs, under the heading "SOLO USE" that discusses this: Training: prepare for upcoming certified events by running a shorter distance INTERMEDIATE race. The inclusion of INTERMEDIATE RACES in a marathon or half marathon training plan can be problematic for reasons other than cost. Long slow weekend runs, a given in any plan,  can leave runners unavailable for other commitments and activities with family or friends and at work (this fits into the 'opportunity cost' category). Finding the specific distance race in a nearby location on the exact day called for in the plan can be difficult and the search and travel to regional sites can also be time consuming.

Think about using EarnedRuns bibs for at least one of the intermediate races to save the cost of registration. You'll be surprised how seriously you approach this race, even though you might be the only person monitoring your performance.

RUN HAPPY!

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/07/15/the-1600-marathon/