RECEPTIONIST IS RUDE. Refused to give me her name and all. They renewed my fee without my permission, receptionist hung up the phone and refused to give me her name. After mentioning I have her bosses direct contact she tried to call back ... DO NOT COME HERE!!! read more

Cancelled race 9/17. Their ad said the race will go on rain or shine and was cancelled due to "possible" lightning there was no lightning and multiple runners still ran without the race. Flew from vegas thinking there would be some decent race. This organization is full of weak individuals cancelling due to rain. They won't mail you anything either, definitely do not join if you're not local. read more

'm a big, big believer in CARA. There are 3 benefits to marathon training with CARA: 1)Running friends. Since marathon training takes over your life for 6 months, its nice to have people who can talk about it for hours at a time. Also, you can eat ENORMOUS amounts of food at brunch after the Saturday training runs 2)Consistent training. Being part of a group run is easier than solo, and you get the extra motivation to get 'er done. 3)Post race tent. Porta potties, massage, and food. All very nice after the run. The major differences between Cara and the other big training groups are: CARA's 18 week training program is 4 weeks shorter than Team in Training. The longer schedule might be nice Chicago Endurance sports is a slower start and even longer program because they do walk/run training. read more

Its interesting reading the other reviews of CARA both positive and negative and trying to see everyone's perspectives....yes CARA running groups do travel in packs and sometimes increase congestion on Saturday mornings, but doesn't that happen with any large running group? In all I think CARA's positives far out way any small negatives. I remember some 5 or 6 years ago now I signed up for the 10K training and I encouraged my brother to join the 5K group. I don't think I could have found the understanding or motivation to run like that on my own and it gave me the confidence to keep building my distance. Last year I completed the Chicago Marathon. I can say that I would not have done it if it wasn't for my CARA group. The early morning start time, great leader and group gave me the motivation to keep going. The CARA Ready to Run 20-miler was pretty cool too. My only complaint about CARA specifically is that many of their programs and activities are focused on the North Side. I think that they are realizing that there is a need for programs in other areas, but still the Downtown location doesn't always offer the variety of programs that they have up north. In the winter especially it would be great to have some runs in other locations. As I'm the one writing this review, I'd recommend downtown please :) read more

I decided to join CARA in 2011 after scoring a sweet deal for membership on Groupon. Ironically, a friend bought me the same Groupon as a gift so I ended up getting two years of membership instead of one. This review is for the Summer Marathon Training Program. If you are looking to run a marathon, I definitely recommend training with them. They have plenty of sites in the city and in the suburbs. The price is around $170 for members, but it is totally worth it. They host a Super Clinic, which gives you all the information you need to know about training for the marathon. They cover injury prevention and treatment, training tips and suggestions and even information on bettering your running form. You also get free entry into their Newton Ready to Run 20 miler, which is your last long run before the big race. I failed to do mine (bad, I know), but I heard it was awesome. On race day, you get free entry into the CARA VIP Marathon Experience. You get private gear check, indoor bathrooms, post race food and other great amenities in an indoor place before the start of the marathon. This is crucial, I think since the weather in Chicago in October can be wacky. Also, you get some great non-marathon training benefits with your CARA membership such as discounts for races and running stores. Overall, outstanding organization! If you're into running, check it out! read more

This is basically a group that you join to help you run and to reach your goals. They have organized group runs to help you train for anything from 5Ks to Marathons. The groups meet all over the Chicagoland area. They meet in the North, South, and Loop areas along the Lakeshore path. They also have several groups that meet in various 'burbs. The groups are then split up into different "pace" levels. Each level has their own assigned pace leader who keeps you on track at a steady running pace and provides encouragement and any advice you need. CARA itself has a yearly membership fee to get discounts for various things, such as local stores, some races, and their group runs. But you don't need to be a member of CARA to do the training runs, you just pay a higher non-member fee. Also to note, their website has an extensive list of upcoming local races. I highly recommend this group if you are looking to start running or want to take your running to that next level and complete a marathon. They definitely helped me finish my first marathon and I met a lot of great people along the way. read more

CARA is an excellent training resource to prepare for any run that you want to do... marathon, half, less, they've got you covered. With long runs on Saturdays and shorter runs midweek, the dedication of the coaches (unpaid volunteers who get free CARA membership) is phenomenal. This is truly a group of people just wanting to help others realize their potential in running. While it was a little off putting to pay a membership fee, and then pay again for the training programs, you'll realize the longer distance you're trying to run, the more useful CARA is. Long runs on Saturdays have water/gatorade stops along the way set up for you by CARA volunteers, leaders take you and a group of people ensuring that you keep the pace you plan to run at (all the way to 12:30 per mile I believe), and there is food and physical therapy at the end of the long runs to help with your refuel/recharge needs. The group I'm with is very friendly (as is most all groups I hear) and tend to provide each other advice and watch out for each other. Quick tip: Running with people makes the time fly by a LOT faster. One would think running is a cheap sport... get some shoes, go out and run, but if when you're training for a marathon, it's not that easy.. at least for me. CARA helps remedy all that. Verdict: So far, this has been an excellent use of resources to help prepare for the marathon. If I plan to run future marathons (or possibly half marathons), I'd definitely look into renewing my CARA membership. read more

I have participated in three CARA programs: winter marathon training, spring half-marathon training and the summer marathon training for the Chicago marathon. CARA is a running group that also gives some perks. I think CARA is invaluable for a first-time marathon runner - you get a lot of information via emails, handbook, and by the group leaders' advice. There are also race discounts. I think CARA forced me out of bed for the long runs, but I hated the way I was treated like a kindergartener and told to stay in 2X2 formation no matter what! The "pack" also yells when there is anything from a puddle to a biker. I get it, we see it, and there is no need for the yelling! I understand that the lakeshore path is packed, but the yelling at mile 12 was not helpful and more irritating. I would suggest CARA to first timers, but if you've already run a marathon just join a free club. read more

I participated in the Summer Marathon Training Program this past summer. I wavered about joining the group, but ended up joining as I got a discounted membership through my charity. I definitely do not regret it! The biggest plus about the program is that you do your long runs with a group that is going through exactly what you are every Saturday morning. It definitely beats running 18 miles by yourself while the rest of your friends sleep off the night before. I was not looking forward to getting up to make the 6:30am training runs, but I know during the hot summer there was no other option, and the group gave me something to get out of bed for. The other huge plus is that the long runs are supported so there is water & gatorade every 3 miles or so. Some of the stops have energy gels and granola bars too depending on who is kind enough to spend their Saturday morning filling up water cups for 100's and maybe 1000's of crazy runners. The other huge bonus is that the Magellan 20 Mile run is included in the program cost. This race normally costs around $75 and is the longest run you do before the marathon (3 weeks prior). The race goes North to South so you don't have to run 10 miles, then turn around and go right back. Busses are at the end near the Museum of Science and Industry to bus you back to your car near Montrose Harbor. The south part of the Lake Shore path is beautiful, and the super fast people who drive back as you are still running give you lots of honks & cheers along the way. Most all of the group leaders were great (some are very vocal during the runs which can be both a good and a bad thing). Weekly emails were sent to my pace group which was great, and I ended up running about half of the marathon with my group the day of the race. If I ever forget how much pain miles 18-25 caused me and I sign up for another Marathon, I wouldn't hesitate to sign up for the CARA Program again! read more

This is ONLY a review of the Newton Ready to Run 20 Miler, as I am not a CARA Member. I can't really comment on the other marathon training runs or the weekend aid stations set up on the lakefront, but it looks like others enjoy it! ANYWAY. I know the above event was not a race, but it was one of the best runs I have ever participated in. One of the most unique features was the use of actual CARA members in each start wave. The waves were grouped by pace per mile, and since the CARA members were so welcoming and friendly, you trusted that if you stuck with them and your wave, they would run at the pace you expected to run. They definitely did, but I left my group because I thought they stopped too long at the aid stations. I would pass some pace groups that have spent the entire 18 weeks running together. Now that's just amazing! Others passed me and were trying to figure out ways to pass the time (sharing funny facts of useless information stored in their heads, playing movie trivia, etc). It also was very cool to run along the lakefront and see the (almost) entire Chicago lakefront path from north to south. There were times that we were running, and I knew where I was mileage-wise, but I hadn't the slightest clue how far south we were! I don't know why that was 'cool'...maybe because it took my mind off the fact that I was running 20 miles. Anything to distract me! it was so much better than looping around a course over and over. I also liked that the lakefront path remained open to the public...people watching is another distraction from the fact that you're out running for three hours! Something I HAVE to comment on was the use of encouraging signs during the last mile! There would be a sign posted every 100 meters or so with sayings like "drop your shoulders, and breathe," "let gravity take over," and "You ARE a natural runner." It was so inspirational! It gave me that last kick in the butt I needed to finish the run! Lastly, here comes the only negative aspect: CARA had a bit of an issue with the buses that were due to take us back to the start line. The police said the buses were causing traffic issues and made them circle around (or something like that) until they were ready to pick us up (rather than stay parked like originally planned). Then they ran into heavy traffic. The point is, they caused a delay and the runners were unhappy. We got a really nice e-mail from CARA explaining what happened and that they were so sorry that we had to stand in the rain and wait after running 20 miles. I thought that was really good that they explained what happened. The tech shirt we received at the end of the race was very well-designed and BONUS: they had men's and women's sizes. Thank you, CARA! I am not training for the Chicago Marathon, but for the Marathon I am running, my longest run just happened to line up with the 20 Miler. If you're running the Chicago Marathon or fall marathon, you really should consider this event. I'd rather pay a little to run my longest training run with Medical stations and Aid Stations and thousands of other runners, than by myself! read more

I have been a CARA member for the past three to four years now and they are an outstanding organization. They offer great training programs for runners as well as social events and optional volunteer opportunities. While some runners prefer to train on their own, many people find they are more motivated when training with a group, and also find the group experience to be fun. CARA offers training programs for both novice runners looking to prepare for their first race (be it a 5K or a marathon) as well as experienced runners such as Speed Training programs. My favorite CARA activities are the Bar Series; they have three different six week long program (one each in the spring, summer and fall) where you meet up at a different bar each week, run anywhere from 2 to 6 miles and then you receive a free beer, some complimentary appetizers and they auction off many good running prizes (i.e. new shoes, entries to races, massages etc.). With CARA you also receive discounts at many Chicago area races as well as special perks at some raises such as a special tent or gear check area. CARA has programs in the morning and evening, warm and cold weather, for short and long distance - there is something for everybody! I have made several good friends I have met through CARA, so it is also a great venue for somebody new to the city and/or looking to expand their social network. I have also seen a few love connections made at CARA events, so for single people it can be a wonderful opportunity to find potential dates. The membership fees are extremely reasonable and are even cheaper if you sign up for two years and/or with a spouse. I highly recommend CARA to anybody interested in running in a fun, social environment and/or seeking to train for a race. read more

CARA is the group to train with for a marathon. Their pace leaders are friendly and motivating, many have run multiple marathons and even ultra marathons, and keep you accountable. They use the Hal Higdon training program for their Chicago marathon which allows you to go up in distance fairly naturally over a 16 week training program. The long runs will include great training for pacing yourself and helping you to learn when to have water breaks and use fueling products. I made some great friends during my marathon training with CARA a few summers ago and would not have made those 18 and 20 mile runs without the motivation and company of fellow runners! read more

CARA is the must-be-part-of organization for any runner in Chicago. Whether you're a hobbyjogger, competitor, elite, or new to running, CARA offers everything. From social bar runs, free fun runs, training (beginning-marathon/Boston performance), discounts to local running institutions/stores and races throughout all of Chicagoland, CARA has you covered. It's incredible how much this nonprofit does with a small staff. CARA even has a marathon team, where you can fundraise and get a bib for the Chicago Marathon! 100/10, get involved! read more

New Years Resolutions - get fit, lose weight, run a race WELL...... If you are someone who needs people to push you and run with you at your pace, then joining CARA is the first step on a hard road to happiness and being fit and running races and achieving that runner's "high", the natural feeling of, WOW I like to run and I feel good and it's fun!! I first heard about CARA when my brother joined to run his first marathon years ago. I thought it was so great that he got to meet new people who were pushing him and motivating him. My husband joined, I also finally joined and we were both group leaders this year. He does the marathon training and I did the beginner runners 5k, 10K training. There are groups all over chicagoland, so you don't have to drive all the way into the city every weekend. Everyone is genuinely nice and just want to run and have fun and train hard! read more

I have mixed feelings about CARA. I don't think it's necessarily for me, but I think it is a great organization for beginner runners or people who just want to socialize with other runners. Cara has very well organized training runs regularly that meet all over the city and suburbs. Their races are also very well done and range from 5k, 8k, 10k, half marathons, full marathons and even an ultra marathon road race! I was a member for a year, but decided not to renew as I most often prefer to run solo. However, I see the groups every weekend and I've heard they do a great job of helping people start running and prepare them for races. Plus, you get discounts at running stores all over the city and race entries for CARA sponsored races. See you on the path!! read more

I finally cashed in on one of the benefits my CARA membership gave me! I registered at a disounted rate for the Lakefront 10miler. This was a wonderful run, highly organized, and is a terrific example for the folks over at RAM Racing to model the Hot Chocolate after. Highly organized packet pickup locations, a nice shirt, and a course that was challenging, yet approachable. The CARA running community knows how to do it. I find their membership to be a bit pricey--- as there aren't a lot of freebies involved, more "here's a cheaper rate to pay for these programs". I didn't renew my membership due to cost, but maybe they give a student discount?? read more

This past Sunday, I finished my first marathon and I could not have done it without CARA. Joining CARA was without a doubt an amazing decision. I began the race with the confidence I had developed through training and ended with a smile on my face. When you join, you become part of an incredibly supportive group of insane people who are out of bed and on the trail each Saturday morning to log miles. The group provides you with the structure and accountability to get moving and train correctly. Beyond that, when you are running over a half marathon each Saturday, the miles go by quickly when you have made friends and spend the entire route catching up. If you only run solo now with your iPod in hand and the idea of talking for the entire run seems counter-intuitive / impossible to you, let me assure you that your fears are unfounded. CARA also means that you are taking advantage of water/Gatorade stops each Saturday morning! Another perk is that CARA sends a weekly newsletter with great tips and motivation that keep you plugged in. You also get to participate in the Magellan Ready to Run 20 Miler, which turns your peak mileage day into a race-like event (no chip time, but otherwise). An extra, extra special shout-out to Jeff Volin, my group's leader (9:00 minute milers) this year. Beyond the fact that he is a running machine, Jeff is a great leader, incredibly knowledgeable about marathon training and pays attention to how each member of the group is doing. Jeff also sends weekly e-mails to keep the team motivated. Thank you, Jeff and thank you, CARA!!!! read more

before i discovered kumas and really good beers I would eat at burger king and drink mickeys big mouth malt liqour....(who am I kidding, i still do;p) also back then i would also think I could run 26.2 miles without needing to train...much. Today I realize cara is an awesome tool for tools like me who think they know it all, despite actually knowing less than nothing. Spend the money, get the shirt, shoe id reflector, join the weekend running groups, read the website, attend the seminars and then spend your money on registering for a race, maybe even a marathon... if you are going to try to run and I mean RUN, not walk and sort of walk/run a marathon please do one smart thing and surround yourself with people that actually know what they are doing like Cara so does. also...another lesson i learned while trying to train myself, 14 jeagerbombs at 3am does not help you when you are trying to run 10 miles at 7am in 100 deg summer heat.... =dehydration + heatstroke now I know. read more

I like CARA. I like that I can connect to other local runners and that you get awesome discounts and a subscription to Runner's World as part of being a member. The staff is very helpful and friendly, but everything is a little disorganized. It's also expensive compared to other running clubs, but you do get a 15% lulu discount and a year's subscription to Runner's World so go for it. read more

Signed up for this at the Shamrock Shuffle and have enjoyed the summer half marathon training program though I haven't been able to attend the training runs in person the guidance, emails and advice are helpful and the shirt is nice! I feel like with this structure (and the discounts you get for joining) it's a fun way to stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. read more

I love, love, love CARA. I am training for my first marathon and really had no idea what the heck I was doing. CARA has guided me through it and I have felt informed, encouraged, and protected! When my foot started giving out and causing me some pain mid-summer, NovaCare took care of me with a free consultation, which is offered through CARA. The pace leaders are extremely supportive and enthusastic and the camaraderie in my group got me through the most grueling of runs. The atmosphere before the long runs (I started at Montrose) will get you pumped up with music and a large group of other insane runners out there in 95 degree heat at 6:30am! CARA's water stations are perfectly placed and we LOVE the wonderful people who are out there serving gatorade and water (thank you!) every weekend. They will also occasionally hand out Clif Shots in various flavors. I will most definitely run with CARA again! read more

While I have not yet made it to marathon day, I am so grateful for CARA and the 10 minute pace group that runs on Saturday morning with Mark. Not only am I so impressed with Mark's communication, but also how he runs a team that is responsive, kind and overall on their 'a game' at all times. Yesterday, I rolled my ankle early in the run. One of the group leaders ("blue" Lou) hung back with me and offered support, and ran with me for the entirety of our seven miles. I was extremely grateful for his/everyone's support. If you want to run a marathon, I can't imagine any other way to do it! read more

As far as their marathon training program, the program is definitely a great way to meet new people and a step in the right direction. However, last winter I was running with the 8:00 pace group and the pace group leaders were often overpacing, as much as 20 seconds per mile too fast! While I had no problem running faster, there were others who constantly had to make requests to slow down. Some runners ended up bonking in the later stages and being left behind which can eventually lead to injury and overtraining. Part of this stems from hiring unqualified group leaders who are inexperienced and lack the sufficient knowledge. As further proof, Coach Bob Glover quipped, "arrive just 2 minutes faster than your planned planned split at the half of a full marathon and you already blew your race!" In words, what Coach Glover is saying is for every 1 second you go out too fast in the first half of a full marathon, you lose 3 seconds at the end. The worse part of "overpacing" is you end up taking too long to recover for your other 2 key workouts(1. Tempo Run 2. Track Intervals) in the middle of the week which again leads to injuries. That said, there is a reason for most runners your Long Run should be 1 to 2 minutes slower than your planned marathon pace. The goal of the long run is to teach your body to store more glycogen by depleting it. Our group leader last winter in the 8's pace group were running 7:40 pace on average which again was too fast for a lot of members. If your slow run is 8:00 pace, your goal time should be 3:01 for a full marathon and not 7:40 to 7:45 pace. This is all the more reasons a group leader needs to have at least 4 to 5 marathons under their belt and the pace they are running should be an "easy pace," well below their threshold pace. i.e,, one of the group leaders, his PR was an 8:00 pace and I feel he should not have been leading the group as that violates the general principles of training. Moreover, his marathon that he ran, his overall pace turned out to be 8:15 pace, thus he clearly should not have been leading that group. I don't mean to be so critical and I am not here to defend or give undo criticism, but I must be honest. I am hoping that there will be change and CARA understands a training program has to be well designed and proper pacing is key to a successful training program. read more

i signed up for a CARA membership because it was the only way to register for the 2007 Chicago Marathon after it was full. (and considering how that marathon turned out, i shouldn't have tried so hard to get a spot.) so CARA is kinda overpriced...the $38 membership fee just entitles you to pay more fees for more events if you actually want to run with CARA. and the events are overpriced too -- i don't know anyone who'd want to pay $45 for a party called "Ball of the Foot," even if that's a discounted price. so really, the best things that came out of my CARA membership were a $5 discount on a half-marathon, and an opportunity to stuff packets for the Chicago Marathon -- which, you'd think, could afford to pay packet stuffers, considering it has a $110 registration fee. and finally, when i ran along the lakefront over the summer, there were groups of 20+ people in CARA shirts (marathon training groups?) clogging the running path and waiting in lines at the water fountains. would it be too much for CARA to make room for others using the lakefront? please? read more