Free Training with CARA

Mercy Home runners have access to training with the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA). Since 1989, CARA has helped tens of thousands of runners complete 26.2, including thousands of charity team runners. If your goal is to complete the marathon in Chicago on Sunday, October 8 2023, or any other fall marathon, CARA’s popular 18-week program has long been Chicago's premier group training program, serving newcomers and experienced runners alike.

With CARA training you will never have to go it alone. Your pace group leader and fellow participants will give you the Power of the Group that has gotten CARA runners to the finish line more than any other program in Chicagoland running.

Exclusive training program perks and amenities:
  • CARA runners enjoy 11 training site options in the city and suburbs
  • 18-week training plan with online tools, group weekend long runs and mid-week workouts
  • Experienced pace group leaders from 7:30 to 12:00 pace, plus run/walk options
  • Hydration supported runs
  • NovaCare Rehabilitation Injury Hotline
  • Weekly newsletters
  • Training tech shirt
  • A full 2022 CARA membership
  • Entry to CARA’s Orangetheory Fitness Ready to Run 20 Miler
  • Entry to CARA Marathon VIP Experience at the Palmer House Hilton