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Dates
Dec. 18, 2023 - April 21, 2024
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Saturdays - Long Runs
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Wednesdays - Track Workouts
Description
Group training targeting spring marathons
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Locations
Chicago and Lisle
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Overview
Winter months can be challenging, but CARA's "Power of the Group" will provide you the support, community, and accountability you need to successfully run through the winter, and reach your spring race start line ready for success.
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As Chicago's premier group training program, we have helped tens of thousands of runners successfully complete their goals. Whether you're a newcomer or experienced runner, our program provides training plans that meet you where you're at.
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You will never have to do it alone. Your pace group leaders and fellow participants will give you the Power of the Group that has led CARA runners to the finish line more than any other program in Chicagoland running.
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Your training program is led by CARA coaches who have national certifications and years of proven coaching success long before we bring them into CARA.​
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6-week preseason guide (NEW)
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18-week training plan with five options (Novice, Novice II, Intermediate, Advanced, and Run/Walk)
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Training guide and weekly education newsletters
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Video guided marathon tailored strength training plan
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Group training long Runs (Saturdays) led by group leaders for 7:30 to 11:30 pace/per mile run, and 12:00 to 13:00 pace/per mile run/walk
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Coach led speed workouts (Wednesdays)
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Hydration support at training runs, including water and Gatorade Endurance
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Rush Physical Therapy Injury Hotline
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Access to a private STRAVA group for program participants
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PUMA winter hat
Suggested Spring Races:
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London Marathon
Important Dates:
Nov. 6: Pre-Season Guide Training Starts
Dec. 4: Packet Pickup Begins
Dec. 18: Official Program Start Date
Dec. 20: First Track Session
Dec. 23: First Long Run
Jan. 5: Packet Pickup Ends
Feb. 9: Deadline to add packet mailing
April 7: Lakefront 10 Miler & 5k
April 21: Race Weekend
Group Long Run Locations
CARA training group long runs are offered at locations throughout the city and suburbs. Participants have access to all locations through the season and are not restricted to only their primary registration choice. (Click location maps for google map)
Chicago - Waveland*
Waveland Park
Saturdays 7:30 a.m.
Lisle
Morton Arboretum
Saturdays 7:30 a.m.
*Note: Training location is returning to Waveland Park, away from its Diversey Harbor location where it has been located in recent years.
Group Track Workout Locations
CARA training group track workouts are offered at the location below:
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Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. at Montrose Beach Wilson Track (Chicago)
Volunteer
CARA training programs rely on dedicated volunteer site coordinators, group leaders, and coaches to support program participants, and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Site coordinators are recruited from experienced program group leaders. Those interested in becoming a site coordinator now, or in the future as openings are available, should contact CARA Director of Training Tim Bradley (tim@cararuns.org).
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Group leaders are the backbone of CARA training programs. Group leaders keep runners safe, organized, on-pace, and motivated during training runs. Those interested becoming a group leader can learn more HERE.
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Coaches are needed to support CARA track workouts. Experienced coaches may be tabbed with leading a workout, where others can assist with workout organization and timing while learning. Those interested in becoming a coach or assistant coach should contact CARA Director of Training Tim Bradley (tim@cararuns.org).​
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Hydration Volunteers are needed to support hydration stations at training locations. Volunteers may volunteer for a single date, or a season. Interested volunteers can check out opportunities on our volunteer page.