Training & nutrition

Training program

The official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training Plan from Nike is designed to get the best version of you across the finish line. The 18-week plan will help you develop speed, endurance and strength to get you ready to tackle your first or fastest marathon.

Download the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training Plan (.pdf)

Download the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training logs (.pdf)

Health & nutrition

Remaining healthy throughout your training for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is the key to crossing the finish line on race day. Tips from Marathon sponsors Gatorade Endurance, Athletico, Mariano’s and NOW Foods will help you to finish strong and get the most out of your Marathon experience.

	Train with what’s on course. Gatorade Endurance is proud to be an official partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, hydrating athletes on race day. View tips from Gatorade.
	Cooling pain relief to get you across the finish line. You can’t outrun the aches, pain and soreness that come from pushing yourself during training and on race day. Use Biofreeze to #CoolThePain and train with what’s on course so you’re ready for race day. Use as directed. View tips from Biofreeze.
	Remain healthy throughout your training. Check out some tips from supporting sponsor, Athletico Physical Therapy on how to remain healthy as you train. At Athletico, we help runners keep running. View tips from Athletico.
	Self-care tips for the natural runner lifestyle. Training for a marathon is a full-time job, and you definitely need some upgraded self-care techniques to relax and regenerate during training and after the race. Show your hardworking body some much-deserved love and treat yourself to these recommended rituals of natural self-care! View tips from NOW.
	Fuel your training with Chiquita Banana. The right foods can help make a successful run, which is why Chiquita’s uniquely tasty, top-quality bananas are a hugely popular pre- and post-run snack. View tips from Chiquita Banana.