Life Time Expands Chicago Running Portfolio with Sold-Out Half Marathon and Youth Initiative

Event summary

  • Life Time's Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 5K drew 9,500 participants from 47 states and 35 countries, marking its 17th year and first sold-out event.
  • The race introduced a new 5K distance, replacing the 10K to attract beginners and families.
  • Life Time Foundation launched the Kids Run Final Mile program, with 200+ Chicago Public Schools students completing the final mile of the half marathon course.
  • The event serves as the kickoff to Life Time's Chicago Half Marathon Series, with a commemorative third medal for participants in both spring and fall races.
  • Life Time operates 15 athletic country clubs in Chicagoland, with a new Northbrook location set to open in June 2026.

The big picture

Life Time's sold-out Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 5K underscores the growing demand for community-centric health and wellness experiences. The company's strategic focus on expanding accessible events and youth programs aligns with broader industry trends toward preventative health and lifelong fitness. With nearly 30 athletic events and 190 country clubs, Life Time is positioning itself as a key player in the health and wellness market, leveraging its scale to drive engagement and membership growth.

What we're watching

Youth Program Scaling
Whether Life Time can replicate the success of its Kids Run Miami initiative in Chicago and other markets.
Event Portfolio Growth
The pace at which Life Time expands its nearly 30 athletic events portfolio to capitalize on growing demand for health and wellness experiences.
Membership Engagement
How Life Time's event series and new country club openings will drive membership growth and retention.