It's not too late to train for a big race
Ready, set … plan!
Race season is in full swing, but are you ready to actually sign up for that half-marathon you've been putting off for a year?
Yeah, yeah, we know you "missed the registration date" or it "conflicted with your schedule."
But starting today you'll have no more excuses.
Even if you've sat on the couch all winter, fitness pros say there's still time to train for at least a half-marathon.
"Generally speaking, if you're starting from scratch, most people start training six to eight months in advance for a marathon and three to four for a half," says Tony Bothell, a physical therapist and athletic trainer at Athletico in Schaumburg.
"Those are guidelines just to be safe and minimize injury," he says. "But if you're an experienced runner, you can get away with a shorter training time."
With that in mind, we've rounded up details on some of the best suburban and city foot races and bike races coming up through October.
Starting this week, we'll give you the rundown on some of the major competitive marathons and half- marathons coming up in the area.
Fees vary, some are in your own back yard, and others demand at least a day trip. So figure out what works for your budget, your calendar and -- most importantly -- your fitness goals.
Marathons
The Quad-Cities Marathon
Where: Starts and ends in Moline
When: Sept. 28
Fun fact: The event covers four cities, three bridges, two states, and one Island along the Mississippi River. The 26.2 mile run starts and ends in downtown Moline. And it includes smaller races like a half-marathon and 5K.
Also … It's also a qualifier for the prestigious Boston Marathon.
Cost: $60 for the full marathon before Sept. 13
Web: www.qcmarathon.org
The Chicago Marathon
Where: Starts in Chicago's Grant Park
When: Oct. 12
Important info: Open registration is already full because the race has reached its 45,000-participant capacity. You can still enter this year's race, however, by going through the marathon's official charity partners. For details, see the Web site.
Also … Only seasoned runners need apply because marathon rules say you must be able to finish the race in a maximum net time of six hours and 30 minutes.
Cost: Varies by charity, but some may require fundraising minimums. Regular registration is $110.
Half marathons
Chicago Distance Classic
Where: Course info isn't out yet, but it's naturally in Chicago
When: Aug. 10
Stat: This race drew more than 10,000 runners last year.
Also … Registered runners will receive weekly e-mails filled with training tips from running coach Jenny Hadfield
Cost: $55 before June 30, $65 before Aug. 7 and $75 on race day
Web: www.chicagodistanceclassic.com
Crystal Lake Half Marathon
Where: Start and finish at Lippold Park, Route 176 just west of Route 14, Crystal Lake
When: Sept. 7
Good to know: Register early because only the first 400 participants get a free long-sleeved shirt.
Cost: $30 before Sept. 5 and $40 on race day
Chicago Half Marathon
Where: Starts and finishes at the Museum of Science and Industry and runs along Lake Shore Drive in Chicago
When: Sept. 14
Fun fact: Runner's World magazine voted this one of the Top 10 half-marathons in the country.
Cost: $55 before July 31 and $65 until Sept. 5