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Metabolic Testing & VO2Max

VO2 Max

$250

Complete a SINGLE test to assess your Active Metabolic Rate (AMR) for accurate heart rate zones, fat vs carb metabolism, and determine your true VO2 Max!

Heart Rate Zones

Calories/hr Fat vs. Carb

VO2Max Score

Aerobic “Zone 2” Threshold

Anaerobic “Lactate Threshold”

CardioCoach App results (Phone and Garmin)

Members: BOOK HERE

VO2 + RMR
“Metabolic360”

$360

Our most popular option and recommended starting point!

Complete a DUAL test bundle including Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) and Active Metabolic Rate (AMR) in one appointment – for a complete view of your metabolic health & wellness!

Includes full VO2Max test

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)

RMR % Carb vs. Fat Calories

RMR Report Linked to VO2 Max for greater accuracy

LACTATE 360

$500

Our recommended “next step” for multisport athletes looking to determine true “Zone 2” across different modalities (e.g. Bike vs. Run)!

TRIATHLETE? We recommend completing a Metabolic360 test as a RUN test first before completing a LACTATE test (typically as a BIKE test).

Includes full RMR+VO2 test (Metabolic360 bundle)

Lactate Threshold (LT1) for “Zone 2” Training

Lactate Threshold (LT2) for Zone 4/5 & Heart Rate Zones

Interested in scheduling a metabolic test with Coach Chris Navin?

STEP 1) PLEASE READ THE TEST PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS:

TEST PREP INSTRUCTIONS (Fasting & Resting Guidelines)

STEP 2) CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE A TEST TODAY:

BOOK A METABOLIC TEST TODAY!

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LEARN MORE & BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE AT OUR PARTNER LOCATIONS BELOW:

Schedule testing at our LAKESHORE LABS location by visiting us at www.MetabolicRunner.com


LAKESHORE SPORT & FITNESS (LSF) – ILLINOIS CENTER
IN DOWNTOWN CHICAGO:

BOOK YOUR TEST TODAY IN DOWNTOWN CHICAGO:

www.MetabolicRunner.com

POWERED BY:

LAKESHORE LABS is powered by Metabolic Athlete and 4 STAR ENDURANCE
Train Smarter with MetabolicAthlete.com CardioCoach PRO testing from 4 STAR ENDURANCE

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ADDITIONAL TESTING INFO

VO2Max Testing

WHAT IS METABOLIC TESTING?

Find your fitness MOTIVATION through lab-grade precise MEASUREMENT of your unique METABOLISM! The term “Metabolic Testing” can mean many things, but most commonly refers to two of the most popular types of “indirect calorimetry” tests that are often performed using gas-exchange equipment in human performance labs or university settings, such as:

VO2 Testing for Active Metabolic Rate (AMR)

  • Active Metabolic Rate (AMR)
    AMR testing is sometimes referred to as VO2, VO2max or VO2submax testing where you perform a graded exercise test (GXT) on a piece of fitness equipment such as a treadmill or stationary bike for fitness benchmarking purposes. These tests normally include 6-15 minutes of walking, cycling, running, or rowing with increasing effort, incline, speed, or resistance until you “max out” due to fatigue as you approach your maximum heart rate (though you typically will end a test 5-10bpm below your actual Max heart rate). For those with any physical limitations or personal preferences, VO2 testing can also be performed where you aim to finish at a “submaximal” 80-90% effort level, or about 20-30 beats below your max heart rate. Either way, we consider AMR tests to be the “best all-around” option and starting point for those who have never performed a metabolic test before. VO2 reports performed with the most modern equipment (such as the new top-tier CardioCoach “PRO” unit we coincidentally use!) will provide insight into your fat & carb metabolism while also providing accurate Heart Rate (HR) training zones, Aerobic Threshold (AeT), and Anaerobic Threshold (AT) values… basically all the data you need to train smarter and learn what your metabolism is doing while you are working out.

  • Sample VO2/AMR Report:
Sample Page from VO2 Max Report (above)

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RESTING METABOLIC RATE (RMR)

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) testing
  • Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)
    RMR testing is similar to AMR testing, but performed at rest. Testing includes monitoring your oxygen consumption for 10-20 minutes and measure your metabolic rate at rest to aid in diet & nutrition planning. These tests provide insight into what your metabolism is doing “for the 23 hours of the day you’re not working out” and thus are typically performed alongside a diet & nutrition consultation, and combined with a VO2 test to give you a full metabolic profile for all 24 hours of the day.
  • Sample RMR Report:
RMR Sample Report (above)

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Additional types of metabolic testing include:

METABOLIC EFFICIENCY & FatMax Testing

Metabolic Efficiency Point (MEP) – Carb vs. Fat Metabolism “Crossover Point”
“MEP” testing is often referred to as “cycling economy” and “running economy” testing, and generally refers to “Long VO2” tests that utilize a type of Metabolic Efficiency Testing (MET) protocol to help determine your fat vs. carb “cross over” point – aka your Metabolic Efficiency Point (MEP). These tests are often referred to as “FatMax” as we aim to also determine your Maximal Fat Oxidation (MFO). We recommend this type of test as a next step “Level 2” test after you have completed an initial Active Metabolic Rate (AMR) as a VO2 submax or VO2max test because a strong endurance fitness baseline and familiarization with testing procedures is a pre-requisite to ensure desired results can be achieved, as these tests require wearing a mask and pacing consistently at increasing efforts for 20-60minutes non-stop. These tests can be customized for various sports and any fitness levels, as we utilize several types of “long VO2” protocols including those administered by Metabolic Efficiency Training Specialists (METS) certified by MetabolicEfficiency.org

Sample Page from MEP/MFO “FatMax” Report:

Sample Page from Metabolic Efficiency Test (above)
NEW! Get your unique CardioCoach metabolic profile test result loaded on your Garmin – and unlock your watch’s true potential yo see your real time Fat vs. Carb metabolism!
Get your MetabolicAthlete Lab test results on your phone with CUSTOM TAILORED heart rate zones and fat + carb calories based on your TRUE metabolism using CARDIOCOACH!

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Blood Lactate & Rowing

Blood Lactate testing is commonly performed as ROWING, CYCLING, or RUNNING test
  • Blood Lactate
    Where VO2max is an “indirect” (oxygen) measurements of your metabolism through your breath, Blood Lactate involves a “direct” (blood) measurement measurement and is considered by many to be the “gold standard” for determining your Anaerobic or Lactate Threshold (AT or LT). Performed as a rowing, cycling, or running fitness test, lactate testing is administered by taking several finger or ear blood sample “pricks” every couple minutes to measure the concentration of lactate in your blood at various exercise intensity levels to help determine your Onset of Blood Lactate Accumulation (OBLA) and Maximum Lactate Steady State (MLSS). For most clients, we often recommend completing a less invasive VO2 Max test first, simply because it’s less painful and modern VO2 Max testing equipment includes a higher frequency of data points and additional insight into your fat vs. carb metabolism that you may not get with Blood Lactate testing. We offer both Blood Lactate as a standalone test and as a Blood Lactate + VO2 “combo” whereby we perform VO2 testing while taking lactate samples simultaneously for a more comprehensive metabolic evaluation.

    Learn more here: MetabolicAthlete™ BLOOD LACTATE testing

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AT HOME TESTING NOW AVAILABLE (added cost)

Our Mobile MetabolicAthlete Lab can come to your home or any fitness center!

The Mobile Metabolic Athlete™ Lab

When it comes to metabolic testing, it’s not just about getting accurate data… it’s about getting actionable data. A good metabolic specialist can administer an accurate test, but a great metabolic specialist can help you combine accurate data with additional experience and the right technology to know how to turn that test data into an actionable tool that will help you perform your best.

So when we say “it’s not just about the test”… we truly mean it! It’s really all about the expert consultation and review of your personalized metabolic data. Combining the power of an expert consultation with the highest quality actionable data and reports is what delivers true value. Experience and expertise matters. That’s why we created the MetabolicAthlete™ testing services and training programs – metabolic testing provided by certified endurance coach specialists who have worked with both elite athletes and actually used the data in their day to day training and racing for several years. We help the average Joe, experience what it’s like to train like a Pro!

We develop and pioneer a wide variety of metabolic testing services, including our own custom-developed testing protocols and sport-specific reports tailored specifically for heart-rate based fitness training and endurance athletes – including our new MetabolicMarathoner™ test for runners and MetabolicAthlete™ tests for cyclists, triathletes, and Iron-distance. With our mobile testing equipment, we partner to provide testing at health clubs, training centers, fitness studios, running stores, and bike shops across the Chicagoland area.

For an added fee (typically +$200), full VO2 Max, Lactate, RMR, and Metabolic Efficiency lab testing can now be brought to you if you’d like to enjoy testing in your own home gym or partnered fitness studio! Simply ask us about schedule “at home” testing – now available by request thanks to our use of a new industry-leading mobile metabolic cart that has just been released in just the past 2 years!

Metabolic testing expert Coach Chris specializes in metabolic testing for cyclists, runners, and triathletes – all the way up to iron and ultra distance. As one of the only USAT Level 2 Certified Coaches who is also a Metabolic Efficiency Training Specialist (METS-I FCP) that has completed over 1,000 metabolic tests over 10+ years, Coach Chris combines his unique lab experience with an extensive real-world racing experience (110+ triathlons, 30+ marathons and 21+ Ironman races) to provide world-class training consultations with every test. Our goal is to not only provide you with good lab data, but also help you custom-tailor all of your fitness apps and devices including MyZone, Garmin, TrainingPeaks, and the free CardioCoach app that let’s you can see your real time fat & carb metabolism using your MetabolicAthlete™ test results!

Metabolic testing at our partner training facilities is now available for scheduling online. To book a private “At Home” metabolic test, or if you have any specific questions, please contact us anytime at coach@metabolicathlete.com to inquire – we’d love to help coordinate testing to your personalized needs and goals!

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RESEARCH STUDIES, PARTNERS & PROJECTS

We frequently partner with organizations to provide metabolic testing services, research projects, corporate wellness programs, and product testing. We also host “Metabolic Roadshows” and “Metabolic Athlete Testing Week” festivals and events at partner training facilities and retail locations across the Chicagoland area to promote health, wellness, and team-building, as well as to drive membership, boost retention, and simply to have fun with sports science!

If you would like to partner with us on special events, to offer testing to large groups, or as part of special events or programs please contact us at coach@metabolicathlete.com

Research Study

SPECIAL OFFER (Winter 2022 only – now expired, sorry!):
Apply for a chance to earn a free VO2 MAX TEST + TRAINING CONSULT as part of an ongoing research study with our partners at PhysIQ that is wrapping up this month! Limited spots remain for females aged 18-29 and 60-70+, so APPLY NOW at:
https://physiq.com/solutions/evo2-trial

EARN A FREE VO2 TEST:
APPLY FOR RESEARCH STUDY HERE

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PURCHASE A TEST TODAY (Payment Only Links)

Want to purchase a test before scheduling, as a gift, or to submit a payment after scheduling? Use the following links below to select your test type and click on the image/button of your credit card type below (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, etc.). Questions? Contact us at coach@metabolicathlete.com or use the chat link on our facebook page to contact us via Messenger anytime!

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SINGLE TEST ($250)

Purchase a SINGLE test (can be redeemed for either RMR or VO2 MAX test).

$250.00

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SINGLE TEST ($250)

Purchase a SINGLE test (can be redeemed for either RMR or VO2 MAX test).

$250.00

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SINGLE TEST ($250)

Purchase a SINGLE test (can be redeemed for either RMR or VO2 MAX test).

$250.00

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SCHEDULE A TEST TODAY

Evolving the Sport of Indoor Triathlon

LIVE RACE RESULTS: tinyurl.com/indoortri-results
UPCOMING EVENTS: 4starendurance.com/events
LANDSHARK SERIES: LandsharkTriathlon.com

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The summer triathlon racing season in the Chicago-area is too short… generally lasting only 3 months (June-August)! So our goal at 4 STAR ENDURANCE to grow the sport of triathlon and address the needs of DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, and ACCESS (DEIA) is what led us to win the first ever USA TRIATHLON (USAT) “shark tank” business competition… becoming the first ever recipient of the Elk Grove Village-USAT Entrepreneur/Business Plan of the Year Award with a focus on innovating and bringing more accessible indoor triathlons to urban city environments!

Our goal to continue to grow the sport drives us to create innovative indoor triathlon experiences as one of the main areas of focus for 4 STAR ENDURANCE. We’ve developed a passion for creating engaging experiences with innovative technology solutions in fun DEIA-friendly multisport experiences that have included several Chicago firsts, including:

  • The world’s first-ever “double” and “triple” distance indoor triathlons
  • Chicago’s largest indoor triathlon series (7-10 races annually at FFC clubs)
  • Chicago’s first live-streamed indoor triathlon (produced by i55 IndoorTriathlonUSA series)
  • Chicago’s first indoor SPRINT and OLYMPIC distance triathlons (at FFC Lincoln Park)
  • Chicago’s first indoor/outdoor HALF IRON distance triathlon
  • Chicago’s first eSports-enabled indoor triathlon (at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness)

Our next step is to create a bigger and better cooperative INDOOR TRIATHLON SERIES across the greater Chicagoland area. If you are interested in helping us grow the sport of triathlon and become part of the series, CONTACT US anytime or come out and VOLUNTEER with us as we are actively recruiting partners, sponsors, athletes, coaches, tri clubs and facility partners to host our next events!



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LANDSHARK TRIATHLON SERIES

It’s #TimeToTri! Maintain your multisport motivation all year long by competing in our growing indoor triathlon series with the new and improved Lakeshore Landsharks Indoor Triathlon events at the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness (LSF) – Illinois Center.

Whether you’re a first timer, or experienced iron-distance athlete looking to test your fitness to kick off your training season, the indoor triathlon challenge is a great way to stay motivated all year long! For full details, and to sign up to race and/or volunteer, visit LandsharkTriathlon.com

Registration includes special perks and offers, including a free drop-in SINGLE CLASS (up to $50 value!) in a SWIM TECHNIQUE or SPLASH & DASH CHALLENGE class!

Discounts available to LSF Members, 4Star Club, Lakeshore Landsharks and Volunteers. If you’re part of a triathlon club, charity, or want to create your own team to race together, contact COACH@LANDSHARKTRIATHLON.COM to inquire about how to get involved!

Register online at runsignup.com/indoortri or LandSharkTriathlon.com

4 Star’s Fix A Flat Resources

Want some great fix a flat tips to help practice and build confidence for race day?

Watch our 4 STAR ENDURANCE “Fix a Flat” video (link coming soon)!

  • COMING SOON!

DETAILED STEPS TO FIX A FLAT:

  1. Open BRAKES / brake calipers first
  2. Rear wheel only: shift into HARDEST (smallest) rear chainring for easy wheel removal (optionally shift into small ring on front crankset for even more slack on chain to make it easier)
  3. Open skewer & loosen with a couple turns
  4. Remove wheel (rear wheel – push on derailleur tab for easy removal)
  5. Remove tire using TIRE LEVERS (starting on the side opposite the valve)
  6. Align tire lever “scoop” under bead of tire with a spoke below. Position a second tire lever and push both in together, then attach one tire lever to a spoke using the tire levers HOOK
  7. Keep tube aligned with label / PSI near valve (to better identify spot of leak/hole/tear)
  8. Inflate tube with small amount of air to identify spot of leak (if possible)
  9. Check inside of tire for gravel/glass and spot source of leak (look for powder)
  10. Patch tube or replace tube
  11. Add small amount of air into (new or patched) tube (to maintain shape and prevent pinch flats).
  12. Starting at valve – insert tube inside wheel & tire.
  13. Place tube inside tire first, then align both over the wheel (bead still exposed)
  14. Re-set tire bead starting at valve first (push valve in to help), then work around
  15. Use tire levers or palms to get last bit in (push slack up & pinch tire into center of wheel well if you need more slack)
  16. Inflate slowly, and check for exposed tire bead before fully inflating
  17. Reset wheel and make sure it’s in all the way!
  18. Tighten skewers (should be hard, firm!)
  19. Check brakes – are they rubbing?
  20. Double check outside surface of tire for glass or rocks before riding away
  • TIP: BARREL ADJUSTERS!  If gears aren’t shifting or brakes are rubbing, use the barrel adjusters or manually adjust the brakes to ensure safe braking power! Barrel adjusters are sometimes located on cables coming out of handlebar shifters or on downtube.
  • TIP: After Fix A Flat… A-B-C Bike Check!
    • A – Air – should be firm for greater efficiency & speed!
    • B – Brakes – Not rubbing, but not too loose either!
    • C – Chain – Shift through all gears

ADDITIONAL VIDEOS:

Watch these videos to learn how bike tires work and various tips on how to fix a flat tire if it happens to you!

1. Fix A Flat – Road Bike Front Wheel (7mins) https://youtu.be/wOBcXVnJLcc

2. Fix A Flat – Road Bike Complete Removal (2mins)https://youtu.be/Lydl8gyGrHY 

3. Tires – How Bike Tires Work (10mins)https://youtu.be/F7tY70MModk

REI TIPS

For more bike tips, check out REI’s bike articles and flat tire tips.

1. REI Bike Articles: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/cycling.html 

2. Flat Tire Tips: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/flat-tire.html

Tri312 TRIATHLON TRAINING w/ Lakeshore Landsharks & BFF Bikes

Want to join our Tri312 triathlon training programs which include all swim, bike, run, and tri clinics, group classes, and group endurance training programs provided by 4 STAR ENDURANCE, LAKESHORE LANDSHARKS, LAKESHORE SPORT & FITNESS (LSF) ILLINOIS CENTER, and BFF BIKES communities?

There are several ways to join us…

Tri312 Training and Racing Community

The new Tri312 Triathlon Training and Racing Club Community now includes options to enjoy group classes at both BFF BIKES and LAKESHORE SPORT & FITNES (LSF)! For a complete list of options including full health club gym membership at LAKESHORE SPORT & FITNESS (LSF) Illinois Center, select from any of our membership levels @ https://runsignup.com/tri312

“COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP”
(Tri312 CLUB ONLY)

$70.30/yr

Triathlon Training Plans via TrainingPeaks

Discounts on Training Programs, Classes, Coaching, Metabolic Testing, and Gym Membership

Swag Item and Swim Buoy + 1 free Tri Clinic and Swim Class drop in included!

Option to upgrade to add on outdoor & indoor training + gym membership

CLUB + OUTDOOR TRAINING (LEVEL 2)

$100/mo

Triathlon Training Plans via TrainingPeaks

Discounts on Training Programs, Classes, Coaching, Metabolic Testing, and Gym Membership

Swag Item and Swim Buoy included!

Outdoor workouts (Tri Clinics, Open Water Swims, Group Run, Track Workouts, etc.) with RSVP via TeamReach.com phone app.

CLUB + FULL TRI TRAINING (LEVEL 3)

$200/mo

Triathlon Training Plans via TrainingPeaks

Discounts on Training Programs, Classes, Coaching, Metabolic Testing, and Gym Membership

Swag Item and Swim Buoy included!

Unlimited Classes (indoors at LSF-IC and Outdoors) with RSVP via TeamReach.com phone app.

$250/month for single month.
$200/month w/ club membership (3-month min)

LEVEL 4 “IRON PACKAGE”
(+ GYM MEMBERSHIP OPTION)
+$129/month add-on for full gym membership:
Click here for IRON PACKAGE.

LEVEL 1 COMUNITY MEMBERSHIP
LAKESHORE LANDSHARKS – Tri312 CLUB ONLY
Simply subscribe to join our LANDSHARK “Tri312 RACING CLUB” ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP via RunSignup (for only $70.30/year!) to “become part of the club team” and an official member of Chicago’s first true “multisport” community. We’re not just a typical “triathlon” club and endurance sports community, we’re a true multisport community for athletes who enjoy doing weekly Swim-Run “Aquathlon”, Bike-Run “Duathlon”, and Indoor Triathlons! We are focused on a wide variety of endurance sports including Swim-Run, Open Water Swimming, Indoor Triathlon, as well as a triathlon club! You’ll enjoy team perks including 4Star Endurance’s TrainingPeaks training plans (Sprint to Iron distance and more!), access to race day team tents (at races like Leon’s Triathlon at the start of the season and Chicago Triathlon at the end of the season), discounts on training and coaching + a chance to earn up to two (2) pieces of team gear every year – one item by showing up, and another by volunteering or referring a friend to join! Joining our “racing club” membership makes you an “official” member of the team for race day events, socials, and other special events, even without formally joining us in any training programs or classes. You’ll also enjoy the same access to training plans, group discounts, and sponsor perks as our “train smarter” 4 STAR CLUB (click to learn more) program, just without the TrainingPeaks Premium upgrade (which is included only in the 4 STAR CLUB “upgrade”).

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LEVEL 2 = CLUB + OUTDOOR TRAINING
LEVEL 3 = CLUB + OUTDOOR + INDOOR TRAINING
LEVEL 4 = CLUB + OUTDOOR + INDOOR + LSF GYM “IRON MEMBERSHIP”

Join levels 2 through 4 to add on in person training options including OUTOOR ONLY classes and clinics, full triathlon training (OUTDOOR + INDOOR classes) and even a full gym membership as part of our new “IRON MEMBERSHIP” to enjoy unlimited access to swim at the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness (LSF) pool & receive full health club benefits in downtown Chicago! Learn more at http://runsignup.com/tri312


SWIM LIKE A LADY… AND RACE LIKE A SHARK!

For each new member who joins our LAKESHORE LANDSHARKS CLUB TEAM, we provide funding for two (2) FREE SWIM BUOYS… one for you + one for an additional person as part of our LADYBUG SWIM PROJECT initiative. So join the team and support a great cause!


SWIM LIKE A LADY…. AND RACE LIKE A SHARK!


CALENDAR OF CLASSES & EVENTS:


Volunteer & Coach with 4Star!

REGISTER HERE TO VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR, PACER, OR COACH WITH US (AND OUR CHARITY PARTNERS) FOR ALL PROGRAMS:
https://tinyurl.com/4star-coach-volunteer

REGISTER HERE TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE INDOOR TRIATHLONS:
Tri312.com/volunteer

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN THE ENDURANCE VOLUNTEER EMAIL LIST HERE:
https://groups.google.com/g/endurance-volunteers

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4 STAR ENDURANCE draws inspiration from the 4 stars of the Chicago flag – one of the most iconic city flags in the world! And just like the every aspect of the Chicago flag represents a key part of it’s history, each point on each star of our 4 STAR logo represents a key source of motivation and structure that helps to make endurance sports athletes more successful: PLAN. TEST. LEARN. INSPIRE!

But one of the biggest contributors to athlete’s success is their support team – our coaches and volunteers! So if you’d like to help us help athletes succeed, join our team of some of the most fun, friendly, experienced, and certified coaches & volunteers in all of Chicago!

Volunteers are welcome to help out in a wide variety of events and programs, and every time you volunteer (or if you recruit a friend or family member to volunteer) as a member of our 4 Star Athlete Club, you can even earn team swag for volunteering or referring a volunteer! We even have volunteer opportunities with our charity partners where you can earn donations towards fundraising efforts to receive free training program and race entries (see and join our charity partners for more info)!

EXAMPLES OF VOLUNTEERS WANTED:

  1. OPEN WATER SWIMS – Swim Angels & water support to guide and pace athletes!
  2. RACE DAY SUPPORT – Team Tent and Cheer Stations!
  3. TRAINING SUPPORT – Run Pacers, Swim Angels, and Bike “SAG” Support!
  4. Chicago Half Marathon, Spring Half, and ChiTri – Beer Tent with T2!
  5. Chicago Triathlon – Bike Marshall “Fix a Flat” Support Team!
  6. Chicago Triathlon – Team Tent Cheer Station!
  7. Indoor Triathlons – Various duties including athlete timing and more!
  8. Ironman Races – team tent support, sherpa-ing, & family cheer stations!

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A COACH?

One of our key areas of focus for 4 STAR ENDURANCE is our fourth “LEARN” star…. to educate athletes through a pathway and roadmap designed to help you explore becoming a more educated athlete, and possibly a coach too. Through volunteerism, mentorship, and even coaching opportunities we can help you develop as a coach through our TRI312 Chicago Endurance Coach Alliance (CECA). These opportunities include the ability to become a mentor or certified coach, with support, guidance, camaraderie, and even formal mentorship from our head coaches like Coach Chris. Mentorship is a collaboration designed to help you develop as a coach for both IN PERSON private coaching (e.g. swim lessons) and REMOTE private coaching (e.g. using tools like RunDot, TriDot, TrainingPeaks, RaceX, Garmin, and BestBikeSplit).

Volunteers, mentors, and coaches can progress through our 4 stages of volunteerism for coaching opportunities – this typically evolves naturally from season to season but can be as fast and formal, or informal and gradual as you like from stage to stage:

  1. VOLUNTEER
  2. FORMAL PACER/MENTOR
  3. COACH (USOC SafeSport, CPR/AED, at least 1 endurance certification)
  4. HEAD COACH (multiple certifications; 3-5+ years of experience)

So come join our community whether you’re interested in volunteering or coaching and we’ll inspire you to keep learning, improving, and ultimately become the best athlete, pacer, mentor, coach, or volunteer you can be!

GET STARTED – SCHEDULE A CHAT!
Schedule a chat with COACH CHRIS to get started: http://calendly.com/metabolicathlete/consult

ARE YOU A CERTIFIED COACH?
JOIN THE 4 STAR “CHICAGO COACH COLLECTIVE” FACEBOOK GROUP HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4starcoaches

QUESTIONS?
Contact coach@4starendurance.com

SWIM WITH US!

SWIMMING LESSONS

Looking for GROUP or PRIVATE swim lessons? Come swim with us!

Enjoy both group classes and private swim lessons in downtown Chicago for all ages and ability levels from children to adults with our new Skyline Swim programs @ http://www.SkylineSwim.com!

Our programs are coached by certified endurance sports coaches including 4 Star Endurance’s Head Coach Chris Navin, a 21+ time Ironman and 12x TeamUSA qualifier. Our coaches host Adult Learn to Swim (ALTS) programs for beginners, TriDot Pool School camps for triathletes, freestyle Swim Technique classes, and we even offer Chicago’s most comprehensive Tri312 Triathlon Training programs which include the Chicago Triathlon‘s TEAM TO END AIDS (T2) charity training program!

For PRICING INFO and ONLINE BOOKING for both GROUP classes and PRIVATE lessons at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness (LSF) – Illinois Center in Downtown Chicago, please click below! Or scroll down further below for more information about our new “Swim360” video analysis packages!

CLICK HERE:
SWIMMING LESSON INFORMATION

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What is the “Skyline Swim”
& Ohio Street Beach Swim Club?

Build confidence in open water!

Chicago’s Skyline Swim is quite simply the iconic “must-do” swim from Ohio Street Beach near Navy Pier all the way past the Hancock Tower at one of the most popular open water swimming venues in the world – right in the heart of downtown Chicago! Our Skyline Swim Club and Skyline Swim School helps swimmers of all ability levels develop swim technique skills indoors and swimming confidence outdoors to complete this epic 1-mile out and back swim. Join us to build up your swim confidence and you too can complete this “rite of passage” for all swimmers and triathletes… swimming the length of the iconic Chicago Skyline to become official members of the Ohio Street Beach Skyline Swim Club!

Need a swim buddy? Join our free Ohio Street Beach Skyline Swim Club community via the TeamReach.com phone app (group code “skylineswim“) to meet up with fellow swimmers almost every day of the week at Ohio Street Beach – and don’t forget to always encourage the use of a buddy system and swim buoys in open water!

Need a swim buoy? Join our Tri312 programs or 4 Star Club to get up to 40% off wetsuits, swim gear, and swim buoys… or enjoy a free open water swim buoy from Coach Chris when you show up for a meetup via our #SwimSafe #LadybugProject at www.4StarEndurance.com/ladybug too!

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LEON’S TRIATHLON is coming back!

4 STAR ENDURANCE is proud to support LEON’S TRIATHLON – one of our favorite local races and the unofficial start of summer “kickoff to triathlon season” for the Chicagoland area!

Register online at LeonsTriathlon.com and join us at this year’s race! As a new perk this year, for every person who registers for the race, 4 STAR ENDURANCE is providing a free training plan:

  • 12-week SPRINT/OLYMPIC TRAINING PLAN – LINK COMING SOON!

IRONMONSTER TEAM: Join us for the Leon’s Tri Team Challenge! 4 STAR ENDURANCE supports the 100% intimidation-free and friendly Chicago IRONMONSTER triathlon club – so if you’re racing the OLYMPIC distance and not already on a club team, please feel welcome to register for the “TEAM CHALLENGE” division and select the option to join our “IronMonster” team roster on race day to compete for the team cup challenge competition alongside the Chicago IronMonster triathlon club – we always welcome any new triathletes! Click here for more details

TRAININGPEAKS TRAINING PLAN UPGRADE: 4 STAR ENDUARNCE also creates detailed training plans delivered via TrainingPeaks! Join the 4 STAR ENDURANCE CLUB or IRONMONSTER to enjoy our premium training plans that feature fully “structured workouts” that are fully compatible with virtually all smart watches, apps, and fitness devices including GARMIN, ZWIFT, ROUVY, RGT CYCLING, and more! Learn more about TrainingPeaks integrations here, and consider joining our 4 STAR ENDURANCE CLUB to unlock the power of TrainingPeaks Premium! See below for more training tips, resources, and info!


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Ride Leon’s Triathlon course on RGT CYCLING using MAGIC ROADS ID: zv3UR9E5Iw0c

LEON’S TRIATHLON – VIRTUAL BIKE COURSE!
Ride the Leon’s Triathlon bike course on RGT CYCLING for free! We’ve created a virtual replica of the Leon’s Triathlon bike course on RGT CYCLING (MAGIC ROADS ID: zv3UR9E5Iw0c). Join the CHICAGO VIRTUAL CYCLISTS (CVC) community for workouts, meetups, and virtual races on the Leon’s Triathlon bike course!

Ride the high-accuracy 3D curated version of the Leon’s Triathlon bike course with the Chicago Virtual Cyclists (CVC) on RGT CYCLING!

Chicago IronMonster’s triathletes have won at least one division of the Leon’s TEAM CUP CHALLENGE every year!

TRAIN SMARTER WITH 4 STAR!
Join the 4 STAR ENDURANCE CLUB to get a discounted upgrade to TRAININGPEAKS PREMIUM to take your training to the next level… and you might find yourself on top of the podium!


IronMonster triathletes swim often at Ohio Street Beach!

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY!
Join the IRONMONSTER triathlon club to join our community of like-minded, beginner-friendly, and fun triathletes! Team perks, social events, meetups, and a race day tent for socializing pre and post race are just some of our perks… as well as discounts on 1on1 training, group training, races, team gear, and more!

How to Create Virtual Cycling and Triathlon Races

At 4 STAR ENDURANCE, we spent 10+ years building Chicago’s first and only USA TRIATHLON (USAT) Certified Performance Center where we developed enhanced techniques for creating highly curated, accurate course replicas for our most demanding amateur and professional athletes alike. Creating the most realistic training and racing experience at our 16-rider indoor CompuTrainer cycling center allowed us to pioneer hosting some of the industry’s first-ever USAT-sanctioned indoor SPRINT and OLYMPIC distance races under one roof… and even support the development of a professional triathlete, world champion, and UCI eSports World Championship qualifier!

Now, with the rapid growth of indoor cycling platforms and eSports Cycling, we’ve now transferred those skills, tools and techniques over to the 3D and video cycling realms to further develop expertise in designing virtual eSports cycling events for both draft-legal road races, triathlon time trials, and charity fundraisers using various virtual cycling platforms including a few of our favorites, such as:

VidFitness for completion-focused video rides with “virtual challenges”:

VidFitness – Bike The Drive

RGT CYCLING for 3D real-world “magic roads” simulations for draft-legal races and time trials:

At 4 STAR ENDURANCE, we’ve also developed our own internal techniques for curating GPS data to design not only the most accurate, but also the best possible ride experiences across several virtual cycling platforms – delivering the best possible experience for our athletes, partners, and training programs.

See below for a few quick tips for RGT CYCLING specifically, and contact us anytime at coach@4starendurance.com to inquire about assistance and services in designing your next virtual course, or indoor cycling or triathlon race experience. Whether a private 1on1 Zoom meeting to learn how to create and custom-tailored a course for your own individual training, or a consulting engagement on hosting team rides, charity fundraisers, or help with coordination for a full professional production and marketing promotion with partner organizations – we’ve done it all!

See the ECHELON RACING LEAGUE for inspiring live-coverage examples of some of the world-class possibilities, or visit VidFitness for video cycling examples!


THE TECHNICAL STUFF

DESIGNING GPS ROUTES FOR VIRTUAL CYCLING

Below are some tips and resources for designing virtual courses on platforms like RGT CYCLING.

STEP 1 – EXPORT GPX FILES
Go to websites like GARMIN CONNECT, STRAVA, or RIDEWITHGPS to search for routes, or design your own course and export a “.GPX” file. Garmin Connect or Strava workouts would be the least ideal to use direct raw GPS data – we recommend converting to a course file leveraging map elevation data first before exporting, rather than exporting GPS workout data from a GPS device without conversion first.


STEP 2 – AUTOMATED GPS ELEVATION CURATION
If the GPX file was created from a GPS watch or bike computer workout, consider smoothing the data with more accurate GPS data from global databases like NASA or USGS. Use a tool like PERF PRO STUDIO or GPS VISUALIZER to convert, smooth, and adjust data automatically based on mapped elevation data from publicly available databases (e.g. with GPS Visualizer, simply select the “Add DEM elevation data” option when converting a file).

WHY? Tools like PerfPro and GPS Visualizer have access to NASA’s SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) elevation data set and/or the USGS’s NED (National Elevation Dataset). If your GPS coordinates do not contain elevation information, this can provide it – or if you have GPS data already, this can help improve your file with great accuracy. If you had elevation data from a handheld GPS watch or bike computer (not very reliable when it comes to accurate altitude data), your data could be “bumpy” with repeated ups and downs of a few feet at a time that shouldn’t really be there to mimic a real-world smooth, flat road.


STEP 3 – FLY THROUGH & MANUAL CURATION
Learn to use GPX file editing tools and follow a tutorial like this – or use a 3D analysis tool like GPXmagic to do a virtual “fly through” of the course and consider watching these videos to learn some best practices on how to make these types of adjustments:

  • FIRST PERSON “FLY THROUGH” – do a fly through to get a better perspective on the course smoothness, hills, corners, and views.
  • SMOOTH STEEP HILLS – consider smoothing hill segments above 8-10 percent grade for a better riding experience for a wider range of athletes and indoor bikes and smart trainers that often have limitations above 8 percent, causing “tire slip” issues. For time trials, consider smoothing grades to under 5 percent grades as the max. Also, to maximize the cycling drafting experience, consider keeping the bulk of the course segments to under 3-6 percent!
  • REMOVE OVERLAPS – “nudge” out and back sections to avoid overlapping (check both left/right “tracks” and up/down “elevation”)
  • SMOOTH TURNS – eliminate sharp turns (unless intended?) by selecting a start point, then clicking SMOOTH BEND, then DROP MARKER – and/or use “TRACKPOINTS” to leverage the “Add 2 track points in place of this one” feature.
  • SMOOTH ROADS – use FILTERS and CENTROID AVERAGING at 50 percent to smooth out larger sections of “bumpy” GPS data points to eliminate both vertical and side to side jitter in GPS data points.
  • REVIEW DISTANCE and ELEVATION GAIN – review the final course data for distance and total elevation accuracy. With RGT Cycling, review the “Detailed Interactive Report” in the confirmation email for any errors or areas of concern…

STEP 4 – LOAD DATA INTO CYCLING APP
Load your file into a cycling app like RGT CYCLING (premium version) by uploading or emailing the data file as per the app instructions for magic roads to make it ready for a test run in your library!

RGT Cycling Mobile App on the App Store

STEP 5 – TEST RACE
Use a tool like the RGT CYCLING phone app (with premium subscription) to schedule a GROUP RACE with 20+ BOTS that have a wide range of FTPs (100w to 300w) to see how fast various riders would complete the course – or schedule a meetup with real people (and bots!).

In RGT CYCLING you can use the new SPECTATE MODE so you don’t have to ride the course yourself – simply view on a PC and click Shift-F6 and use HOME/END and PAGE UP/PAGE DOWN to follow other riders and view the route in 3D from several different camera angles by clicking to drag & zoom in/out to identify any points that need tweaking, then go back to STEP 3 to make any edits and repeat as necessary until the course is perfected to your liking! Once the course is loaded, in the RGT CYCLING app you can use either of these methods to test ride/race a course:

  • MENU-> MAGIC ROADS -> LIBRARY (click on your map) ->”QUICK RIDE
  • MENU->ORGANIZE -> GROUP RIDE or RACE-> “MAGIC ROADS
    then update “LAPS” and add “BOTS” (with at least 50 riders for draft-legal events) with power ranging from 100-300w

That’s it – enjoy!

Echelon Racing League (ERL) Features Chicago’s Top eSports Cycling Team!


With a cold & long winter climate, and a huge population & cycling community, the Chicago area has quickly become a hot-bed for professional level “eSports” indoor virtual bike racing! Check out the highlight reel of video footage and photos of several 4 STAR ENDURANCE and xXx RACING ATHLETICO cyclists racing in the professional divisions of the ECHELON RACING LEAGUE (ERL) – and scroll down below to learn more about how to get started with racing on RGT CYCLING and how to join our amateur and pro eSports teams!

CHICAGO eSPORTS CYCLING HIGHLIGHT REEL 2021-2022

HIGHLIGHT REEL 2020-2021

eSports Cheer Squad!



JACQUIE GODBE
eSports Monster of the Midwest!”

Jacquie Godbe – Monster of the Midwest!

Since the start of COVID restrictions have shut down endurance races across the country, Chicago’s standout pro triathlete Jacquie Godbe has taken her athletic talents to the booming virtual cycling eSports platforms… and proven to be the woman to beat across the two most popular virtual bike racing platforms among professional cyclists – ZWIFT and ROAD GRAND TOURS (RGT) CYCLING.

Jacquie won the U.S. eSports Trials to earn her spot on USA CYCLING‘s TEAM USA squad at the inaugural UCI eSports World Championships where she placed in the TOP 5 IN THE WORLD!

Since then, she’s also been racing professionally with SARIS + THE PROS CLOSET (STPC), one of the top pro teams in virtual eSports cycling, in the new ZWIFT RACING LEAGUE (ZRL) premiere division – as well as with Chicago’s xXx Racing-Athletico in the professional division of the ECHELON RACING LEAGUE (ERL).

You can follow Jacquie on INSTAGRAM and TWITCH

Jacquie “In The News”:
2017 – ITU World Champion (AG)
ITU Athlete Profile


xXx Racing-Athletico

xXx Racing-Athletico – USA CYCLING “Club of the Year” (2010, 2013, 2015)

xXx Racing-Athletico is Chicago’s premiere USA CYCLING (USAC) Division I cycling club, having produced state, national, and world champion cyclists. While supporting grassroots development programs, races, non-profits, clinics, and hosting Chicago’s largest weekly group ride… they were even selected by USA CYCLING as DIVISION I “CLUB OF THE YEAR” three times (2010, 2013, 2015).

Now, thanks to Jacquie Godbe and several other athletes from the Chicago Virtual Cyclists (CVC) community’s ScaryFast Development Squad program, xXx Racing is quickly growing one of the top local eSports bike racing teams and development programs! Learn more about the team at xxxracing.org/history


GET STARTED WITH eSPORTS BIKE RACING!

Want to get involved in virtual cycling “eSports” bike racing with our team on the RGT CYCLING platform? Here’s how to get involved – including how you can (optionally) join one of Chicago’s largest bike racing teams (xXx Racing-Athletico) in real life too!

1. Want to get involved in virtual cycling and network to connect with other Chicago area cyclists?
Get started with our beginner-friendly and free CHICAGO VIRTUAL CYCLISTS (CVC) community – by simply introducing yourself when you join our groups on Facebook and Discord!

2. Want to learn more about RGT CYCLING, the free virtual cycling app?
Visit rgtcycling.com/get-started to race and ride for free virtually – all you need is a phone (as your main “controller”), a PC/Mac/Tablet/AppleTV device (as your “viewing screen”), and a Smart Trainer or bike with a power meter!

3. Want to participate in competitive bike races through the free ECHELON RACING LEAGUE (ERL) – with or without our xXx Racing-Athletico squad?
Visit echelonracingleague.com and sign up for the AMATEUR division to join the Echelon Racing League email list first, then join in the Cat 1/2/3/4 divison races on Saturday and Sunday afternoons (if you’re not familiar with bike racing, Cat 4/5 are the beginner divisions, so start there and work your way up!). Don’t forget to select the xXx Racing-Athletico team jersey under the EQUIPMENT options in the SETTINGS menu of the RGT CYCLING phone app if you’d like to show off your connection to our Chicago-based team. Optionally, feel free to create a profile and join our team roster on RGTDB.com to track your race results across all races you complete on the RGT platform to see how you rank!

To join the PROFESSIONAL division of the Echelon Racing League, please review the “Series Bible” for additional verification rules and steps required to race at this level, including creating a profile on eBioPassport.com and submitting regular videos to verify height, weight, and power meter calibration before each pro level race series. Our “pro” team is very friendly and focused on being an open development squad to help new riders – so we always welcome new members! Simply email coach@4starendurance.com with a link to your ZwiftPower.com or RGTDB.com profile if you’d like to be considered as a new member to our pro team roster – we welcome anyone, but we are limited to 6 riders per race and only up to 12 riders on the team roster (per gender) each season, so spots are limited!

4. Want to join Chicago’s top virtual + “in real life” (IRL) bike racing team so you can show your Chicago pride by wearing a real xXx Racing-Athletico team kit in person?
Check out membership info at xXx Racing-Athletico – and don’t miss the great photos below from featuring their team kit in the ECHELON RACING LEAGUE (ERL) on RGT CYCLING!

5. Need to upgrade to a SMART TRAINER or POWER METER?
Most virtual cycling apps require a “power source” to measure your effort in watts. You can get a phone app or heart rate monitor that converts heart rate to power, a power meter for your bike (to have the added benefit of a power meter for indoors and outdoors!), or a “interactive” smart trainer – visit some of Chicago’s top local bike shops like PEREGRINE BICYCLE STUDIO and BFF BIKES!

6. Gear up!
Join xXx Racing Athletico and you’ll also get a code for 50% off team gear in the Echelon Racing League (ERL) eSports gear store: https://wearenations.com/collections/echelon-racing-merchandise?page=2


ECHELON RACING LEAGUE PHOTOS

Check out these great photos from TLBVELO PHOTOGRAPHY!

The #SwimSafe LADYBUG PROJECT

#SwimSafe #LadyBugProject #FreeSwimBuoy #PassItOn (in one year)

The #SwimSafe #LadybugProject was started by Coach Chris in 2019 as he was completing his 100th outdoor triathlon (achieved while attempting an unprecedented “quintuple” Chicago Triathlon challenge!). Coach Chris decided to celebrate his 100th triathlon achievement by offering 100 FREE SWIM BUOYS TO ANYONE in order to encourage open water swim safety in hopes of inspiring 100 new people to get into the sport of triathlon.

Whether you’re an experienced open water swimmer, or a beginner, wearing a bright buoy anytime you swim in open water helps for several reasons including:

  1. to make you more visible to other swimmers (to avoid collisions)
  2. to make you more visible to lifeguards (in case of emergencies)
  3. to make you more visible to boaters and watercraft (to avoid accidents)
  4. to serve as a floatation aid when treading water (to build endurance)
  5. to take the intimidation out of open water swimming!

The LADYBUG #SwimSafe initiative provides completely FREE “ladybug” swim buoys to anyone who joins Coach Chris for an open water swim or group workout with various communities of open water swimmers and triathletes in Chicago, with one caveat… you have to agree to “pass it on” by giving the buoy to someone else within a year of receiving it, to encourage open water swimming safety, camaraderie, and develop new friendships through open water swimming!

BECOME A LADYBUG SWIMMER!
To receive a free buoy, simply follow our news & events via 4 STAR ENDURANCE website or calendar by signing up for notifications on the bottom of this page below, follow us on facebook, join our email list, check here for upcoming events, or join our “Landsharks & Ladybugs” Strava Group to stay tuned for upcoming events where we might be giving out buoys… then just show up and ask COACH CHRIS NAVIN for a free buoy! Once you receive a ladybug buoy (or if you are interested in one), please SIGN THIS FORM to #SwimSafe – especially if participating in an open water swim with us:

SIGN THE LADYBUG FORM HERE:

https://tinyurl.com/ladybug-signup

Our favorite swim location… Ohio Street Beach!

#LadybugProject #SwimSafe PHOTOS


Send us your photos whenever you take a swim buoy and “pass it on” to help expose someone new to open water swimming – or simply use the following hashtags to promote open water swim safety!
#Swimming #OpenWater #LadyBugSwimmer #SwimSafe #PassItOn #SwimBuoy

JOIN OUR STRAVA GROUP HERE:

SUPPORT & PROMOTE SWIM SAFETY

BECOME A Tri312 or 4 STAR CLUB MEMBER or LADYBUG SUPPORTER!
To support the LADYBUG SWIMMER initiative, you can help us continue to provide free swim buoys to anyone willing to simply show up, “pay it forward”, and exhibit goodwill towards other swimmers!

Consider joining the Tri312 Lakeshore Landshark Club or the 4 Star Endurance’s 4 STAR ATHLETE CLUB to enjoy team perks, exclusive discounts on training, racing, and various club partners – proceeds from every membership help us provide 1 swim buoy for an athlete + 1 more to encourage a new person to get into open water swimming too!

Financial support is never expected, but always appreciated to help us continue to inspire others to #SwimSafe… so THANK YOU for any support!!!


OPTION 1: JOIN THE TRI312 COMMUNITY

  • A fun community of athletes from BFF BIKES, Lakeshore Landsharks, and great value with team discounts, meetups & race day perks
  • Free 4 Star Endurance TrainingPeaks training plans towards a triathlon
  • Chance to earn annual team swag at team meetups and events!
  • We’ll provide an open water swim buoy to you and/or any athlete who joins us for a swim!

OPTION 2: JOIN THE 4 STAR CLUB

  • TrainingPeaks PREMIUM upgrade + unlimited Training Plans
  • Up to 4x annual coach consults and discounts on private coaching and training including OPEN WATER SWIM LESSONS!


OPTION 3: DONATE TO THE USA TRIATHLON (USAT) FOUNDATION
For every donation of $29.80 to our USA TRIATHLON FOUNDATION fundraiser, we’ll provide a free open water swim buoy to anyone who shows up at any of our open water swims or meetups!

DONATE HERE:
www.4starendurance.com/charity


OPTION 4: DIRECT SUPPORT
Consider showing support to help us provide more free swim buoys, programs, and events with a direct contribution of any amount:
PAYPAL SUPPORT 4 STAR PROGRAMS

SUPPORT THE LADYBUG SWIMMER INITIATIVE!

OPEN WATER SWIM TIPS

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL!
Subscribe to our 4STAR YouTube Channel for tips and videos on open water swimming, triathlon training, and more!

OPEN WATER SWIM GEAR DISCOUNT

WANT A BETTER SWIM BUOY?
In addition to the basic free swim buoys, we work with sponsors and partners to provide discounts on open water swim gear, including various types of swim buoys above and beyond the basic “mini” ladybug style buoys. So if you’re looking for more robust and reliable buoys that include a “drybag” compartment, “easy inflate” valve, or even a built-in “hydration system” or “LED light” feature, be sure to join our email list and/or join our Tri312 LAKESHORE LANDSHARK TRI CLUB or 4 STAR CLUB to receive promotional discounts on swim buoys and open water swim gear, including 40% off all gear at ZONE3 using our special team discount code!

OTHER GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
Need some great open water swimming gear – check out our gear page!


OPEN WATER LINKS & RESOURCES


Check out these other great open water resources:

CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT (CPD) BEACHES
cpdbeaches.com


#CHITRI “OPEN WATER SWIM (OWS) CHICAGO”
openwaterswimchicago.com


OPEN WATER CHICAGO (OWC)
openwaterchicago.com