Who knew?? Chicago Area Runners Association Discounts!

So I joined CARA when I moved to Chicago. Being from NYC where the running scene lives and dies by NYRRC, I thought that is just what all runners do. CARA has discounts on some races and training programs so I felt like I was getting my money’s worth and contributing to the local running community. All good for the ~$40 per year.
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Then I learned from friends that CARA has:

  • a discounted all access rate for my gym (which is a Chicago Athletic Clubs gym). I now save $16 per month ($194/year) AND get access to all clubs.
  • a discount on my yoga studio (Core Power Yoga) – 10 pack at student rate – $2.50/class (~$100/year at least)
  • a 10% discount at Exhale Spa – saved $13.00 today on my massage! (The woman knew about it but said almost no one asks for this discount!)

They also have discounts at Shred 415, some apparel cos., financial services, running stores and nutritionists. They are adding and updating their website. Check out the Community Partners list at CARA. Some of my favorites:

Me in my Swirlgear!
Me in my Swirlgear!
  • Swirlgear is now offering CARA members 20% off with the code CARA20.
  • Headsweats CARA Discount: Members receive 25% off anything in the catalog with the code CARA2013. Members can also receive 25% off an exclusive CARA racing hat, with CARA logo on the front.
  • Discounted classes at Shred 415 (email them your CARA number or call them.)
  • Flywheel Sports is offering 10% off on 5 and 10 class packages with code FlyCARA10
  • Get 50% off your first bitty box delivery from Door to Door Organics with the code CARA
  • Get 10% off on your first order of healthy meals delivered from Factor75 with code CARA10.
Made some Zema's pancakes for the husband and me!
Made some Zema’s pancakes for the husband and me! 
  • Zema’s Madhouse Foods offers CARA members 20% off online orders of gluten free, whole grain baking mixes with code RUN4ZEMAS. No minimums. Offer excludes cases, which are already discounted.

SO basically, I am saving $300+ this year alone just for checking this out. Lesson learned — check the member benefits of the organizations you belong to and support. I know I routinely miss out on discounts from public radio membership and who knows what else!

Where have you found unexpected savings?