Race-specific coaching

Chicago Marathon Coach

Chicago's flat course and cool October temps make it a PR machine if you train specifically. We build the speed and lactate work to convert.

Built for a PR

Threshold + MP-blended long runs through the build, with race-rehearsal long runs at goal MP +/- 5 seconds.

Pace discipline in the first half

Chicago's grid and crowds make it easy to start too fast. We rehearse opening 10K pacing weekly.

Weather contingency

October in Chicago can be 38°F or 78°F. Two fuel and pacing scripts built into your race plan.

Recommended plan

Start here: Marathon Build — 16 Weeks

Sub-3:30 to sub-4:00 marathon build. VDOT-paced workouts, MP blocks, race-specific long runs.

Marathon Build — 16 Weeks

Sub-3:30 to sub-4:00 marathon build. VDOT-paced workouts, MP blocks, race-specific long runs.

$17916 weeks · 6–9h/wk
View plan details →
Useful calculators
Frequently asked

Questions

Can I PR at Chicago as a first-timer?+

Often yes — the course is fast. But a marathon PR requires marathon-specific work, not just running miles.

Ready when you are.

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