Training Programs :: Bank of America Chicago Distance Classic

Chicago Distance Classic presented by Bank of America

The Official Training Program of The Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon presented by Bank of America

Chicago Endurance Sports is proud to be the Official Training Program of The Bank of America Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon for the fifth straight year!

We have created a 13-week program that will prepare you for the race, no matter what your experience level is. Get motivated, meet some great people, have fun and get in shape all at the same time!

Sorry, SOLD OUT

CES Half and Half Challenge

NEW for 2008: The "Half & Half Challenge"

Two 'Classic' and 'Popular' Chicago Races. One Great Summer Challenge. More details…

Runner's World Columnist, best selling author and Bank of America Chicago Distance Classic owner John "the Penguin" Bingham will be assisting with the team—don't miss it!

Follow the links below to find out about this innovative, fun, successful program!

Limited Space Available

In order to maintain the high quality that CES is known for (and which participants expect of CES), this program is limited to 350 people. Our last two programs have SOLD OUT before the Kick Off Meeting, and this one will too - don't miss your chance - register today!

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Kickoff Meeting

Join us at our Informational Kickoff Meeting, 9:00am Sunday, May 4th — Hosted at Fleet Feet Sports, Piper's Alley.

Meet our coaches, Sponsors, ask questions (and get answers!) and have fun with a free raffle and giveaways. Registration will be available (cash & check only, please) after the meeting. And don't worry — we won't make you run… yet! Just dress casually and bring a great attitude!

Registration / Packet Pickup — 8:00–8:45am and after meeting

Pick up your training packet (includes daily training schedule, Nike running singlet, and goodies from our sponsors!) prior to or after the Kick Off Meeting. *We highly recommend registering online prior to the Kick Off Meeting as the program will likely sell out before the meeting. If the program is not sold out prior to the Kick Off Meeting, you may register before or after the meeting. Check the CES homepage for updates on the registration.

Parking options at Fleet Feet Sports, Piper's Alley:

  • $2 for the first hour with validation at Piper's Alley parking deck
  • metered parking on Wells St. or North Ave.
  • street parking in the Old Town neighborhood

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Additional Packet Pickup / Registration Dates

We will be offering FOUR additional Packet Pickup dates in order to make the registration process more convenient for you. You will need to pick up your training packet prior to the FIRST TRAINING SESSION on Saturday, May 17th and can pick it up at the Kick Off Meeting or any of the FOUR additional Packet Pick Up dates. Your family or friend may pick it up for you (if you are pre-registered online). All packet pickups will be hosted at Fleet Feet Sports, Piper's Alley in the back of the store multipurpose room (1620 N. Wells Street, Chicago, IL).

  • Tuesday, May 6 from 6-8pm
  • Wednesday, May 7 from 6-8pm
  • Monday, May 12 from 6-8pm
  • Friday, May 16 from 6-8pm

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Program Benefits

Not only do you get to have a lot of fun, but you also get a ton of great stuff too! Check it out:

  • Professional, experienced (and nice!) coaches (more details)
  • Personalized, daily training schedule for all levels
  • Running and Run-Walk training programs and pace groups (more details)
  • Weekly newsletter with tips on training & program updates
  • Weekly tips for training & Q & A at all training sessions with our coaches
  • Coached group training — 2X per week
  • Pace Leaders for every pace and distance
  • Discounted race entry into the Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon
  • VIP Gear Check at the Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon
  • Nike Dri-Fit technical running shirt to the first 350 registrants—a $40 value!
  • Smart ID shoe tag
  • Sponsor Benefits:
    Discounts/promotions from our partners:
  • Educational seminars & clinics (more info below)
  • Fun, team social activities
  • and much more!

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Training Days & Locations

FIRST GROUP TRAINING SESSION: Saturday, May 17th 2008 - 6:30am Fleet Feet Sports – Pipers Alley

Group training sessions are held every Wednesday & Saturday beginning with our first session on Saturday, May 17, 2008. For a little more detail on what happens at those sessions, read on...

Wednesdays - 6:30pm on the Chicago Lakefront (start at Fleet Feet Sports, Piper's Alley)

The focus of these mid-week runs will be on form, pacing skills, strength, flexibility and speed. Our coaching staff will be on hand to help teach, challenge and motivate you!

Saturdays - 6:30am [progressing to 6:15am in June] on the Chicago Lakefront (most runs will start at Fleet Feet Sports, Piper's Alley, with seven of our longest runs starting on the Lakefront Path near Montrose Harbor)

These days are reserved for the long, slow distance runs that are so important to the success of endurance runners. Pace Leaders are available to guide you at the appropriate pace for your current fitness level and goals. Our coaches will also run with you to motivate you and help with any concerns or questions that come up along the way. Water & sport drink will be provided for our longer runs.

BONUS: Restrooms, changing rooms, secure gear storage and water are available at all of our group training sessions!

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Clinics & Seminars

If you truly want to reach your goals, you need to do more than just put in the miles! Our expert speakers will present clinics on a variety of topics including:

  • Yoga for Runners
  • Running Gadgets for Endurance Runners
  • Tricks for Speedy Long Run Recovery
  • Core & Strength Training
  • Injury Prevention & Flexibility
  • Food as Fuel: Sports Nutrition
  • Heart Rate Monitor Training
  • Mental Skills Training
  • Comprehensive Race Prep

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Our Coaching Staff

We're extremely proud of our professional, experienced coaching staff - they always go the extra mile to make sure you have a fun, successful training season! Why is it so important to have qualified coaches? They can:

  • Evaluate your current fitness level and goals to make sure you are training at an appropriate level
  • Evaluate and suggest ways to improve your running form
  • Assist you if you need to adjust your training schedule, in the event of an injury or missed training due to travel or life in general
  • Motivate and challenge you to reach your goals in a smart, safe & effective manner

Click here for more information on our awesome coaches!

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Virtual Training Option

Do you live too far away? Can't make it to any of the Group training sessions because of conflicts? Try our Virtual Training option! You'll receive your schedule online and support from our coaches, as well as a weekly email update with coaching tips, race updates and more. (Custom performance running shirt/singlet available for purchase separately.)

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How to Register

SOLD OUT

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Fees

Group Training Program* CES Alumni New Members
Through February 29th $149 $169
Through April 27th $159 $179
April 28th and later $169 $189
*Limited to maximum of 500 participants
 
Virtual Training Program CES Alumni New Members
Through February 29th $49 $69
Through April 27th $59 $79
April 28th and later $69 $89

No refunds will be provided in full or in part for any reason, including injury, after a program begins. No prorated fees are provided for late enrollments.

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Charity Partners

American Cancer Society

American Cancer Society Charity Runner

Running in The Chicago Distance Classic? Why not run for a reason? Dedicate your miles to the American Cancer Society by becoming a Charity Runner. You will receive team training and many other supportive services and benefits. Most importantly, you will know that each step you take towards your dream will bring us one step closer to finding a cure. We are committed to going the distance—won't you come along?

Contact: Emily Hamilton Emily.Hamilton@cancer.org
http://register.charityrunner.org/Chicago
(312) 279-7266

Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago

Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago's "Lung Power" team

RHAMC is an official charity of The Chicago Distance Classic. Join the Lung Power Team and run these half and full marathon events while raising funds to benefit RHAMC and fight lung disease. You'll receive training through Chicago Endurance Sports and other exciting benefits. Also, volunteer opportunities are available for the Chicago Distance Classic.

Contact: Jamie Leavitt LungPowerTeam@lungchicago.org
http://lungpower2007.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=226982
(312) 628-0213

LUNGevity Foundation

LUNGevity Foundation

Contact: Lisa Jones ljones@lungevity.org
www.lungevity.org
(312) 464-0737

Horizons for Youth

Horizons for Youth

Contact: Meaghan Chambers meaghan.chambers@gmail.com
www.horizons-for-youth.org
(847) 530-5701

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Questions?

Please contact us at info@ChicagoEnduranceSports.com or call 866-237-7861 for more information.

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