The connection between running experience and running-related injuries is still unclear, and the underlying mechanisms are yet to be fully investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate differences in ground reaction forces (GRFs) between novice runners and recreational runners. 15 novice and 15 recreational runners participated in this study. An independent samples T-test was applied using SPSS 25.0 and SPM1D via Matlab. The results showed that recreational runners exhibited a significantly larger peak vertical impact force and peak medial force than the novice group, while the peak propulsive force was smaller than the novice group. The SPM1D results also showed that recreational runners and novice runners exhibited significant differences in medial-lateral force, anterior-posterior force and vertical force. The differences between the groups may reveal differences in running kinetics, which could be related to superior running performance or ability. Valuable insights may be gained from this study to guide future research on injury risks and performance benefits from running.