If you want to amplify your running event’s reach, creating flyers can be a great way to go. Well-designed running flyers can be easily displayed or handed out at gyms, local businesses, or even schools and community centers. They don’t only grab more attention but also show that you mean business.

The key is to design a running flyer in such a way that gets people excited and makes them want to sign up. Here are simple design hacks to help you make it happen.

1. Use Bold, Energetic Headlines That Pack a Punch

Headlines are the very first thing people notice, so make sure that it counts. Make it really strong and action-oriented. Think “Hit the Ground Running,” “Join the Race,” or “Push Your Limits.” Set the font large and bold and consider using all caps or contrasting colors to give it that jolt of character and energy. Remember, the event name should be front and center– never bury it in long paragraphs. 

1. Use High-Action Visuals That Inspire Movement

People connect with emotion and momentum—so choose images that move. Use high-quality and compelling images of runners in motion, close-ups of sneakers pounding the pavement, or a high-energy crowd cheering. If you have original photography of past events, that would be even better to show people what exactly to expect. If not, you can also just use royalty-free action images. If you use running flyer templates, they already have the right imagery built-in, so you can also consider that as an option. 

1. Highlight the Date and Location Upfront

These are probably the main details people care about, so place them somewhere prominent like somewhere below the main headline. People shouldn’t have to hunt for details. You can enclose them in a colored box to make the info pop or drop in a little calendar or map icon to make it easier to spot.

Example:

Saturday, August 10 | Smithville Park, Trailhead Pavilion

Want to go further? Add a Google Maps QR code that opens directions instantly.

1. Make the Color Scheme Clean and Bold

Just pick 2-3 bold colors to avoid visual overload or awkward clashing. Some popular color palettes for running events are orange and white, red and black, or blue and yellow. All these colors exude strength, movement, and energy. Make sure to also use color contrast to guide the readers’ eye through the most important parts of the flyer– from the headline to the details to the call-to-action.

1. Consider Using Icons to Save Space and Improve Readability

There are lots of flyer elements that you can simplify by using icons. Be it dollar sign, a map pin for location, a clock for start time, icons can help you minimize text and thus reduce clutter. A well-designed layout with helpful visuals can guide the viewer’s eye across the flyer for that smooth reading experience, even when people are just glancing or walking by. 

1. Make the Call-to-Action Really Strong

Set an unmissable call to action near the bottom of the flyer. It could be a high-contrast button or color block. Make use of strong action verbs and keep it short. For example, “Sign Up Now,” “Register Today,” or “Join the Run.”. You can also consider adding a QR code or short URL to make signing up even easier.

1. Feature Organize and Sponsor Logos for Credibility

Trust matters. If you can add the logos of all associated organizations– race host logos, charity partners, and local sponsors, that can instantly reinforce trust and make people feel confident about signing up. It’s also a great opportunity to acknowledge all sponsors and attract future partnerships. Size the additional logos accordingly and make sure they don’t overpower the main content. Just keep everything balanced and clean.

1. Share on Social Media

On top of using your graphics for print, you can also make use of the same visuals to share on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or even X. Just resize them if you have to use a reliable resize tool that adapts your flyer for any platform without starting from scratch.

Nearly 40% of today’s event planning pros say social media is the key to their event marketing success— so it’s really critical to have an eye-catching flyer optimized for digital platforms as well.

Make Your Running Flyer Work Hard for You

Running flyers aren’t just about filling a page with information– it’s all about creating excitement and inspiring people to take action.  Make use of bold headlines, dynamic visuals, and vibrant color schemes to really set the stage for success. Ensure that all event details are clear and easy to find at a glance.

Keep these design hacks in mind and make your next running event a big hit that draws a strong crowd.