If getting into running isnt as easy as youve been led to believe, youre not alone.
Julia Gaeta, a New York City-based runner shares similar experiences as she looks for groups to join.
She finished the run by herself and feared for her safety in the dark.
Since then, Ive been super skeptical about actually joining any other run clubs.
Theinclusion of all pacesand people is necessary for the running to be a more accepting sport.
Rach Junard, an Oregon-based runner
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an Atlanta-based runner
Safety
An underrated level of privilege is being able to feel safe while on a run.
Unfortunately, women are more likely to feel unsafe when running than menand theres data to back it up.
To help with this issue, some brands have created products that increase safety.
It takes everyone to prioritize and improve safety for runners.
However, safety issues arent solely about genderrace can play a part in this, too.
Before then, I would run wherever I was, Plunkett says.
I really make an effort to look over my shoulder.
Cost of gear
Theres no doubt running comes with a cost.
Even if it were true that all you need is sneakers, those shoes arent cheap.
an Atlanta-based runner
The average cost ofcomfortable running shoesis more than $100.
Not to mention other running gear likesmartwatches, hydration belts,sunglassesand clothes.
Im learning some items are worth the cost.
Meghan Hill, a Colorado-based trail runner, can relate to compounding costs.
A challenge for me was affording expensive running shoes when I first started running, she says.
Correy Plunkett
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But once youre ready to sign up for a race?
Get ready for your running to come with a cost.
Expensive race registrations are a huge socioeconomic barrier to running.
All because of the rising costs of race events.
There are also usually discounts if you opt for early registration and take advantage of early bird deals.
Still, the pressure of paying for a sport thats supposed to be easily accessible can be burdensome.
Thats why highlighting these challenges and uplifting community members who face them is crucial to moving the sport forward.
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