2025 Winter Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program (Kalamazoo)

Thinking about training for your first half or full marathon and looking for a comprehensive training program in a fun and supportive environment? Completed one or more half and/or full marathons and looking to improve your race experience and meet new local runners?

Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) is pleased to introduce our half and full marathon training program! The 2025 Winter Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program (Kalamazoo) runs on Saturday mornings at 8 a.m. and follows schedules to prepare you for a fall half or full marathon (runs begin at 7:30 a.m. beginning in March). Training schedules target the Kalamazoo Half and Full Marathon, but can be easily modified to fit many other Spring races.

An Information Night will be held on Wednesday, December 4th in conjunction with the KAR group run from Mitten Running Co. (6290 S. Westnedge Ave, Ste A, Portage, MI 49002). The group run begins at 6:00 p.m. and generally goes distances between 3 and 6 miles. Information Night will start at around 6:45. Join us for one or both events. You will have the opportunity to meet program leadership, ask questions, and learn more about our training program. 

Membership in Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) is required to join the 2025 Winter Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program.  The cost is $45, plus the cost of a KAR membership if not already a member ($25 individual/$35 family/$20 full-time student). 

The 2025 Winter Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program (Kalamazoo) includes:

*Organized Saturday morning runs held on a variety of courses in greater Kalamazoo and Portage.  The majority of runs offer a pre and post run indoor or outdoor venue with restroom facilities.  

*Saturday Runs begin at 8 a.m., with pre-run gathering time and instructions 15 minutes before the start time. Runs will begin at 7:30 a.m. beginning in March, as daylight allows. 

*Low, moderate, and high intensity half and full marathon training schedules with day by day workouts including speed work.  

*Hydration out on the course

*SAG (Support and Gear) at each Saturday run.

*Weekly emails with training tips, schedules, and more

*Supportive and encouraging Team Leaders with pace groups ranging from under 8:00 min/miles to 12 + min/miles. Program leadership includes RRCA running coaches. 

*Information Night - Wednesday, December 4th in conjunction with the KAR group run from Mitten Running Co. (6290 S. Westnedge Ave, Ste A, Portage, MI 49002). Run begins at 6:00 p.m., informational meeting at around 6:45 p.m.

*A FUN and supportive winter training experience with shared camaraderie and team spirit.