The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo isn’t just a pre-race formality—it’s the gateway to a successful Chicago Marathon experience. As the official kickoff event for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, this three-day expo (October 8–10, 2025) at McCormick Place’s West Building is where runners secure their race bibs, explore cutting-edge fitness tech, and immerse themselves in the running community . But beyond the essentials, the expo solves critical challenges for runners, from logistical hurdles to last-minute preparation gaps. Let’s break down how to maximize your time here—and why skipping it isn’t an option.
The Hidden Hurdles of Marathon Preparation
Preparing for a marathon is daunting. Even seasoned runners face three major pain points:
1. Mandatory Packet Pickup: No bib, no race. All participants must collect their race materials in person at the expo with a government-issued photo ID. Forget this step, and your marathon ends before it begins .
2. Good Logistics: Navigating a new city, understanding COVID-19 protocols, and finding time to shop for gear while tapering workouts can derail focus.
3. Missed Opportunities: Without a plan, you risk overlooking expert-led seminars, limited-edition merchandise, or nutrition strategies that could shave minutes off your finish time.
Agitate: What Happens If You Wing It?
Imagine arriving in Chicago only to realize:
You Forgot Your ID: No exceptions—without it, you can’t collect your bib .
You Ignored COVID-19 Rules: Proof of vaccination or a negative test within 72 hours is required. Fail to comply, and you’re barred from the expo—and the race .
You Missed the Expo Hours: The expo closes at 8pm on Friday and 6 p.m. on Saturday. Arrive late, and you’ll face frantic last-minute stress .
You Ate the Wrong Pre-Race Meal: Deep-dish pizza might be iconic, but as Abbott dietitian Ashley Ludlow warns, heavy, fatty meals the night before can sabotage your performance .
Solution: Your Step-by-Step Expo Game Plan
1. Location & Logistics: Navigate Like a Pro
Where: McCormick Place, West Building, Hall F2 (2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago). Use Parking Lot A or rideshare drop-off at the West Building .
When:
– Friday, Oct 8: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
– Saturday, Oct 9: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Transportation: Take the #3 King Drive bus from Michigan Avenue or the Red Line to McCormick Place .
2. Must-Do Checklist at the Expo
Grab Your Bib: Head straight to packet pickup. Pro tip: Bring a printed registration confirmation to streamline the process .
Explore Brand Activations: Bank of America’s 50’x50’ hanging banner and Chicago-themed installations—like a replica CTA train car photo booth—offer Instagram-worthy moments .
Fuel Smart: Visit Abbott’s nutrition booth for samples and advice. Ludlow’s mantra: “Nothing new on race day.” Stick to tried-and-tested gels or chews .
Shop Strategically: Score discounts on running shoes, moisture-wicking apparel, and recovery tools. Brands like Nike and Brooks often debut products here.
3. COVID-19 Safety Simplified
Bring: Vaccination proof (digital or physical) or a negative test taken within 72 hours.
Expect: A tamper-proof wristband after verification, mandatory masks indoors, and security checks. Avoid large bags to speed entry .
4. Insider Tips for Efficiency
Beat the Crowds: Arrive early on Friday or during lunch hours. Saturdays are busiest.
Meet Running Icons: Autograph sessions with legends like Desi Linden or Scott Jurek often fill up fast—check the schedule early .
Plan Your Meals: Skip the deep-dish temptation. Opt for carb-rich lunches (e.g., rice, sweet potatoes) to fuel without gut stress .
Why the Expo Elevates Your Race Day
1. Mental Prep Meets Community Energy
The expo’s electric atmosphere primes your mindset. Rubbing shoulders with fellow runners and hearing crowd cheers at interactive booths (like the Fleet Feet Elvis station) builds confidence .
2. Data-Driven Gear Choices
Test wearable tech like heart rate monitors or glucose sensors. Abbott’s Free Style Libre, showcased here, helps runners track metabolic fuel in real-time—a game-changer for endurance pacing .
3. Expert-Led Clinics
Join sessions on injury prevention, hydration hacks, or mastering Chicago’s flat-but-deceptive course. Learn why staying left on the counterclockwise route saves energy .
Post-Expo: Race Week Execution
Pre-Race Dinner: Book a table at Italian Village or Joy Yee Noodle for light, carb-heavy meals .
Morning Fuel: Stick to your expo-tested breakfast—oatmeal or a bagel with peanut butter—3–4 hours before the gun .
Spectator Strategy: Share the expo’s map with your family. Suggest they cheer at mile 1 (Clark/Lake) or Chinatown (mile 21.5) via the Red Line .
Conclusion
The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo isn’t a checkbox—it’s your strategic advantage. From securing your bib to optimizing nutrition, this event ensures you’re physically and mentally ready for 26.2 miles. Mark your calendar, pack your ID, and join the expo with purpose. Your Chicago Marathon story starts here.