FAQs

All Read & Run Chicago signature events programming include a guided running route. On these routes, runs are at a pace of about 11 minutes per mile, with relevant, book-related stops along the way so the guide can discuss the story or give information.

Why 11 minutes per mile? There is no pace shaming in Read & Run Chicago (this is extremely important to us!), but for planning purposes we set this pace. If your typical pace is above 11 minutes per mile, no worries. We’d still love to have you join by bike or another mode of transportation. You are also welcome to join the post-run discussion, author Q&A, or lecture.

Learn more about our pace.

Bring your own water, snacks and anything else you need to have a successful run (e.g. hat, gloves, jacket, etc.).

Each signature event has a different length depending on the book. Events based on full length books are typically 3-5 miles.

Every running route on our signature events programming is set at an 11 minute per mile pace, but often run slower than this due to pedestrian traffic and stoplights. To get the most out of the experience, it’s recommended you be able to comfortably run the entire distance at that pace.

You are welcome to bike any of the runs. Please keep in mind that the routes are designed for running, and we won’t be able to ensure your safety.

For community meetups like our Move + Book Swaps, readers & runners decide to move their way—walking, running, chair stretching, yoga, biking, etc. are all welcome.

We maintain this standard pace during our signature events in order to keep the group as close together as possible to ensure the best possible experience for readers and runners. We believe that at each Read & Run Chicago signature event, we create a one-of-a-kind space for Chicagoans to move, learn, and explore using stories – and it’s important that we bring books to life as one group. When Allison Yates started Read & Run Chicago, she landed on the 11 minute per mile pace as the best middle ground to serve our community of varying paces. Keep in mind, each Read & Run Chicago event running route includes stops to talk about the book. These are great opportunities to refuel and catch your breath.

We always have a volunteer set the 11 minute per mile pace at the front of the pack. There’s a mid-pack runner there to make sure everyone is doing okay in the middle, and we always have a volunteer at the very back of the group. If for any reason someone isn’t doing well or needs to walk, the volunteer in the back will walk for a minute with the reader and runner and make sure they’re okay.

Read & Run Chicago is a space for all runners, regardless of pace, how many races you’ve completed (or if you’ve never run a race), what you look like, or if you have ever run with other people. All forms and styles of running are valid, and if the format of our events is different from your typical style of running, we still want you to feel welcome to join us using another mode of transportation (bike, scooter, roller blades, wheelchair, etc.)

We’re so thrilled this organization speaks to you! The most important thing to know about joining is that beyond loving running, we’re a group of curious Chicagoans who love learning, stories, and movement.

Non-runners who want to join an event but prefer to bike, roll, rollerblade, scooter, or any other form of movement along routes at our 11 minute per mile pace are most welcome but must manage their own safety.

Non-runners are also welcome to join any community meetup like Move + Book Swaps, reading nights, and more.

No stress! You have about a 10 minute grace period. We begin our programs promptly at the time listed on the registration pages, but we always do welcome and introductions and head out for the route~10 minutes into the program.

If you are more than 10 minutes late arriving to check in, you may be able to join the group at one of the stops. Check in with the volunteer at our venue (if applicable for that event) to see.

If you are extremely late, please still plan to join us for the post-run discussion/social time/author Q&A.

Check the weather before you leave and dress according to your own personal comfort. Everyone has different preferences, so try out different options until you know what works for you.

Unfamiliar with what to wear while running? Try Dress My Run.

Nervous about the cold? Here are our winter running tips!

Regardless of weather, since we stop along the way, we suggest layers and a change of clothes for the post-run portion of our events for ultimate comfort.