Whoever said running is a cheap sport never:

a.)    Participated in many races

b.)    Ran year round in seasonal weather

c.)     Ran long distances

d.)    Had an affinity for Lulu Lemon running crops

e.)    All of the above

The correct answer is all of the above.

Sure, you could throw on a pair of ol “sneaks” and hit the road for a mile or three. Running is easy, running is cheap, just throw on what you have and walk out your door, no gym membership required. Unless that is, you like to participate in races. I love to race. I love having a looming date on my calendar that forces me out of bed at five in the morning to get in the miles. Races keep me going, they keep me motivated. Plus, my collection of medals could easily rival Michael Phelps' collection. The thing is, racing isn't cheap. In the month of March alone, I’m staring down a potential $575 in  race fees and; because I like to run in races all over the country, some of those races will also involve flights, hotels, meals and a commemorative refrigerator magnet. You get the picture.

Secondly, this theoretical champion for cheap running never ran in Colorado year round. You have to have clothes that can hold you through temps 0-90 degrees. These aren't just any clothes. You need the good stuff that can regulate body heat, wick sweat, block the wind and prevent chafing. A windbreaker from Wal-Mart won’t do the trick, you've got to pony up for a jacket over $100 if you want true wind block and good air circulation.

Shoes. The average running shoe has a life of approximately 300 miles. If you are running anywhere between 40-60 miles per week, your $100+ running shoes will only last about 2-3 months. That’s four pairs of shoes a year at over $400. But, as Marilyn Monroe said it best, “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” So, someone, somewhere, please give me a pair of shoes. I have some trails to conquer.

Lulu Lemon running crops are da bomb dot come. They are also $98.

I won’t even go into the chiropractor bills or the costs for the physical therapist or the massage therapist. I do it to myself; some might call me a masochist. They wouldn't be wrong.

Needless to say, running is not a cheap hobby as years of lies and deceit have thoroughly misled the American public into thinking. I am here boldly proclaiming the truth. You’re welcome.