Course profile
Flat lakefront course with minimal elevation — ideal for pacing evenly and running a negative split.
Recommended training plan
Based on the Bank of America Chicago Half Marathon course profile and typical September conditions, we recommend starting with the Sub 2:00 plan and adjusting after your first long run.
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Build my Chicago plan →Common questions
When should I start training for the Chicago Half Marathon?
For a September race, a 12-week plan starting in mid-June is ideal. If you're building from a lower base, start a 16-week plan in late May. Use the weeks before your formal plan to build comfortable easy-run mileage of 25–35 km per week.
Is the Chicago Half Marathon course fast?
Yes — the lakefront course is flat with minimal elevation change, making it one of the faster half marathon courses in the US. Runners regularly hit personal bests here. The September weather can be warm (18–24°C / 64–75°F), so hydration strategy matters more than on cooler courses.
What half marathon time should I target in Chicago?
Use PaceForm to enter your most recent 5K or 10K time and get a Riegel-predicted half marathon time. That prediction, adjusted slightly conservatively for September heat, is your most accurate target. Avoid setting a goal based on hope rather than current fitness.
How do I handle the Chicago September heat in training?
Train at your target paces in the available conditions, not at adjusted 'heat-corrected' paces. If race day is warmer than expected, slow your goal pace by 10–20 seconds per km per 5°C above 15°C. Start conservatively in the heat — the second half of a hot half marathon punishes early optimism severely.