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 2026 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. Training schedules target the Kalamazoo Half and Full Marathons, but can be easily modified to fit many other fall races.
An Information and Clinic Night will be held on a Tuesday, December 16th at 6:30pm at The Radisson (100 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo). This informative and fun evening is for runners new and old to learn about Beyond and gain knowledge and networking with local running professionals and those who support the sport in our community. Please plan to join us if you can!
Membership in Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) is required to join the 2026 Winter Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program. The cost begins at $45, plus the cost of a KAR membership if not already a member ($25 individual/$35 family/$20 full-time student).
The 2026 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. This allows us to start early, getting your run done before all your fun weekend activities!
*Low, moderate, and high intensity half and full marathon training schedules with day-by-day workouts.
*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.
*A FUN and supportive summer training experience with shared camaraderie and team spirit.
First Week
Our first run will be this Saturday, Janaury 10th at the Air Zoo (6151 Portage Rd, Portage). Please plan to arrive around 7:40 am to have time to put away your things, use the restroom, etc. Water stops will be about every 2 miles each week. Reusable cups will be provided for runners who need them, but we ask you bring your cup each week to cut down on waste.