Planning a fall marathon or half marathon?
Join ERC for our Saturday morning long runs. We meet every Saturday at 7:00 AM for a 7:15 AM start, with water and Gatorade stations along the course.
All runs begin at Lighthouse Beach (just north of Central Street), unless otherwise noted on the schedule.
Runners of all paces and experience levels are welcome, and you can join at any point in the season. Training schedules begin June 6 and are designed for October and November marathons and Half Marathons.
There is no additional fee for ERC members to participate in the training program (annual membership is $25; indicate interest in the training program when you register).
2026 Long Run Schedule
2026 Marathon Training Long Run schedule
Hydration stations are supported by volunteers each week—thank you to everyone who helps keep runners fueled! Please volunteer for at least a couple of dates. Information & sign up at
Signup at Google Docs
For questions, contact Marathon Training Leader Tom Dubin at tomdubin@comcast.net.
ERC recommends the Hal Higdon “Novice” and “Intermediate” training programs:
Hal Higdon Novice Program
Hal Higdon Novice 2
Hal Higdon Intermediate Program
Hal Higdon Intermediate 2
FAQs – Evanston Running Club Marathon Training Group
What is the Evanston Running Club marathon training group?
The Evanston Running Club (ERC) is a marathon training group based in Evanston, Illinois, serving runners from Chicago, Wilmette, Winnetka, Skokie, and across the North Shore. We organize weekly long runs and provide a welcoming, supportive environment for runners of all experience levels training for marathons or other races.
Can I just show up to run with the marathon training group?
Yes. You’re welcome to join us anytime. Our marathon training group meets every Saturday at 7:00 AM for a 7:15 AM run at Lighthouse Beach in Evanston, Illinois (just north of Central Street), unless otherwise noted on our schedule. You can come for one run or join us regularly.
Do I need to be a member of the Evanston Running Club to participate?
No, membership is not required to run with our marathon training group in Evanston. However, we encourage runners to join the Evanston Running Club (only $25 per year) to receive emails about weekly runs, training updates, and social events.
Is this marathon training group good for beginners or slower runners?
Absolutely. There’s no minimum pace required. Our Evanston marathon training group welcomes runners of all speeds, ages, and abilities, including first-time marathoners. We help connect you with others running at a similar pace so you’ll always have company.
Where does the Evanston Running Club run?
Our marathon training runs take place throughout Evanston and the North Shore, including the lakefront path, Sheridan Road, and the Green Bay Trail. We occasionally organize runs in nearby areas like Harms Woods in Skokie, making this a great option for runners from Chicago and surrounding suburbs.
Is this running group convenient if I live in Chicago or nearby suburbs?
Yes. Many of our runners come from Chicago, Wilmette, Winnetka, Skokie, and other North Shore communities. Our Evanston location is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation, making it a convenient marathon training group near Chicago.
Where do we meet and park for Saturday runs?
We meet at Lighthouse Beach in Evanston, Illinois. There is a parking lot available. It is free for vehicles registered in Evanston, and there is a pay box for non-Evanston residents. There is also bicycle parking and free street parking nearby.
Will there be water along the marathon training routes?
Yes. The Evanston Running Club provides water and Gatorade stations along our marathon training routes. Depending on the run distance, there are typically one to three stations, and runners pass each station twice. Club members volunteer to help set up and take down stations.
Do you run in all weather conditions?
Yes. Our Evanston marathon training group runs year-round in rain, heat, and cold. Runs are only canceled if there is lightning in the area.
What if my marathon is not one of your target race dates?
No problem. The Evanston Running Club marathon training group can help you adjust your training schedule so your longest run aligns properly, typically two to three weeks before your race.
Can I run with the group if I’m not training for a marathon?
Of course. While many runners join for marathon training in Evanston, others participate to train for shorter races or simply to stay in shape. If you are not looking for the mileage of the marathon training group, the Evanston Running Club also has a half-marathon training group and group runs every day of the week. You’re welcome to join regardless of your specific goal.