Who can sign up for marathon training?

I've never run a marathon. Can I still join your program?

How fast will I have to run?

I've run marathons before and I want to get faster. Can you help me?

Do I have to attend all of the clinics?

How should I dress for the clinics?

Do I have to join in all of the weekend long runs?

What is the longest run I'll do?

What if my schedule changes and I miss a clinic or a run?

I don’t have time to run more than three times a week. Is that enough?

I play basketball and cycle a lot to keep fit. Isn't that as helpful as running?

Is the marathon fee included in the training program fee?

Get specifics on CARA's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Training Program .

Don't see your question listed here? Call us at 312.666.9836 or send an e-mail to us at info@cararuns.org.

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Yes! As long as you are an established runner who can meet the guidelines provided above entering into the program, you can build up to marathon mileage by the end of the program.

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If this marathon will be your first, don't worry at all about speed. Your goal should just be to finish. Our pace groups range from 7:30 per mile up to 12 minutes per mile. The latter translates to a 5 hour, 14 minute marathon. The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon course officially closes after 6 hours, and the finish line officially closes after 6-1/2 hours.

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Yes! We divide experienced marathoners and newcomers at our clinics and we offer different mileage schedules for each group. We also have special weekly speed training sessions for experienced marathoners, including those people who want to qualify for the Boston Marathon (though you must be registered in our marathon training program in order to participate).

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No, but you should try. There is a lot to learn to safely run a marathon.

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There are no group runs at the clinics, so you don't have to dress for running. We run together only on the weekends.

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No, but you should try. Long runs get you to the finish line. If you are out of town, find a place to complete your scheduled long run. It will be difficult for you to complete the marathon if you don't build up your mileage during the week, especially on the weekend long run. Training is cumulative, and it is not possible to "cram" mileage without getting injured.

Check here for information about places to run when you're On the Road. Also, try contacting running clubs in the area. They might be able to help you buddy up with someone.

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Our program builds up to a twenty-mile long run three weeks before the marathon, and then you'll taper your mileage. More advanced groups may work up to three twenty-mile runs.

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You can attend a clinic or a long run at any location once you are registered for the program. The material covered is the same at each location.

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We don't recommend it. Running a marathon is a major commitment for your mind and body. You need to make it a priority. Ideally, you should plan on running five days a week during the 18-week training period.

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Basketball, cycling, swimming, aerobics, treadmills, etc. are great ways to stay in shape -- BUT, there is no substitute for actual running when it comes to marathon training. Running carries your body and weight in a way that's different from these other activities. The best way to get into running shape is to run, and it prepares you for that constant pounding of pavement. Look to these other activities for cross training, but emphasize running during the training period.

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No. Most people have a preferred method of registering for races. Some want to register earlier; some, later. Some want to register online; some, via mail or on site. Some want to pay with a credit card; some don't. Excluding fees gives participants the flexibility they want.

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