5 Easy Ways to Make Money Running – Get Paid To Run Guide

If you’re passionate about running, have you ever thought about making money from it?

No matter if you’re a newbie or a seasoned runner, there are clever ways to monetize your miles.

When I first started running, I never imagined my running could be more than just a hobby. But the more I got into the running community, the more I noticed people making a living—or at least some extra cash—through their love for the sport.

So, if running is already a big part of your life, why not explore ways to make it profitable?

Today, I’m going to share a few ways you can get paid to run—even if it’s just a side hustle.

Get a Job at a Running Store

Obsessed with the latest running gear and gadgets?

Working at a specialty running store could be a great way to get paid while staying close to the running community. From sales to event coordination, working in a running store immerses you in the running world.

I worked part-time at a running store a few years back, and not only did I learn so much about the latest shoes and gear, but I also met amazing people who were just as passionate about running as I was. You also get firsthand knowledge about all the newest trends, which is always a plus.

It’s a great way to build your running knowledge, and who knows? Maybe you’ll climb the career ladder, or even run your own store someday..

If you’re interested in joining a running store, you’ll find it’s not just about working the cash register. Depending on the size of the shop, you could be organizing events, coordinating training groups, or even trying out new gear to share insights with customers.

Launch Your Own Online Running Gear Store

If you’ve been running for a while, you probably know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to running gear. Why not use that knowledge to help other runners by selling products they’ll love?

An online store isn’t a huge investment and lets you share your running passion globally. You can sell custom medals, apparel, or even design your own running gear.

If you have some creative ideas or want to share your favorite gear with others, setting up an online store can be a fun and relatively low-risk way to earn money.

Start Your Running Blog

If you love running and enjoy writing, starting a blog could be the perfect way to combine both passions. Blogging lets you share experiences, offer tips, and build your personal running brand.

I never guessed how much my blog would grow when I first started. Writing about my personal experiences and sharing what I’ve learned not only helped me connect with other runners but also opened up opportunities for sponsorships and affiliate marketing.

It took time to gain traction, but with consistency and a passion for sharing my love of running, my blog grew. I even started earning through affiliate links and sponsored posts.

Just remember, it’s not an overnight success, but if you love running and writing, it’s a rewarding way to connect with others and build your brand.

Here are some blog niche ideas to get you started:

• Running for beginners
• Endurance training
• Marathon training
• Runners diet
• Running apps
• Running when you’re over 40
• Running for women
• Trail running
• Minimalist running
• Running shoe reviews
• Running motivation
• Yoga for runners

Whatever niche you choose, focus on delivering great content that resonates with your readers.

Become A Running Coach

One day, a friend asked me to help him prepare for his first 5K. I wasn’t certified yet, but I jumped at the chance to help. It was such a fulfilling experience to see him cross the finish line after weeks of training together. That’s when it hit me—I could turn this into something more.

As a coach, you can help new runners start their journey, train for their first race, or even help more experienced runners refine their techniques. Coaching can be done in person or virtually, allowing you to reach clients from all over the world.

I’ve found that coaching is not just about running but also about building connections with people and helping them push past their limits. It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone you’ve coached cross the finish line of their first 5K or marathon.

Become a Brand Ambassador on Instagram

If you love sharing your running journey on Instagram, why not turn that passion into a paycheck? Many brands are looking for influencers who can promote their products, and if you already have a dedicated following, this could be a great way to earn money while doing what you love.

To become a brand ambassador, focus on building a genuine, engaged audience. Brands are more interested in engagement than just follower count, so make sure your content resonates with your community.

Sponsors on Instagram look for two things: a large following (the type of following that suits their target demographics) and high engagement rates. Fake followers are unacceptable.

Create Running Content on YouTube

Are you comfortable in front of the camera?

Starting a YouTube channel focused on running tips, workouts, gear reviews, and your personal running journey could be another avenue to explore. YouTube offers many ways to monetize your content, such as ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

As a running coach, sharing workout routines, advice for beginners, or even documenting your training for races can attract a lot of attention from fellow runners. The key is consistency—uploading videos regularly and engaging with your audience.

The Conclusion

Hopefully, one or more of these ideas will help you start earning money in the running niche.

Still looking for more ways to make money with fitness? Check the following:

• Become a top athlete.
• Become a certified physiologist.
• Create a product.
• Make YouTube videos.
• Try affiliate marketing.
• Write an eBook.
• Sell your own products.
• Build a running app.
• Create an online course.
• Sell Healthy Food.
• Become a Retailer.
• Fitness Writing.
• Custom Meal Plans.
• Host a seminar or workshop.
• Create a video interview series.
• Start a podcast.

The key is to find what resonates with you and stick with it. Whether it’s writing, coaching, selling gear, or building a social media following, the possibilities are endless. So why not turn your passion into profit and start getting paid to run?

One last piece of advice—don’t rush it. Take time to explore different options and be patient with the process. Success doesn’t come overnight, but if you stick with it, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

What do you think? Have other ideas to share? Drop your comments below—I’d love to hear from you!