So, this week has kicked started my official half ironman training plan. I guess I could also say my IM training since it will really just all blend together. My two A races for the year are Mooseman 70.3 and IM Louisville.
I decided not go with a coach for a couple different reasons, and I'm still not sure if this is smart or not? But, I did find a 20 week Half IM training plan that I liked online. I'm not even sure what site I got it from anymore because I converted it into my own spread sheet awhile ago and it's been hanging out on my desk top ever since.
One of the things about the plan that make me nervous is the amount of running or lack there of. I feel like I should be running more, but I don't want to kill myself/burn out either. It's only Jan and I have a long way to go before I make to August 26th. For now, I have changed all the long runs from minutes to mileage while I'm training for the B&A Half marathon. After that, I will go back to following what's on the sheet.
The first block also only has me swimming twice a week, after that it ups to three days a week which makes me feel better. Since most IM training plans are in times only I will refer to my IM training book for swim workouts that match the times. At about week 17 of my Half training I will pick up my IM training plan (at week 9 of that plan). The first 8 weeks are basically a base and the two plans should blend together nicely. I hope!
Since I am still pretty new to the sport, I hope, I pray I am being smart about all of this. I have restrained myself from registering for "junk races" later in the season, so I can stay focused on crossing the finish line at Louisville.
Input/Advice is always welcome :)
Happy Thurs All
How exciting!!! I didn't have a coach for my 1st IM and I don't have one for this next one, the trick is to take the plan you find and make it your own. One I had found I had to change to mileage also I think they assumed the people using the plan were a lot faster therefore could get more miles in :-) Good luck and keep us posted!
ReplyDeleteI think that you need to sculpt your training however it will make you happiest. That's my 2 cents. :)
ReplyDeleteI like how you have basically referred to the national harbor 70.3 as a junk race.
ReplyDeleteI am absolutely no help when it comes to tri training, but good luck! The good news is that you have plenty of time before your A races. :)
ReplyDeleteLast year, all of my 70.3 training was based on time and not distance. At first I was convinced I wasn't doing enough, but my coach settled me down and I realized I was on target. My only regret with my training was not enough long brick workouts. Every time I rode, I ran for at least 10 - 20 minutes. And I did some longer bricks, but I really didn't feel as though it was enough. Also, figure out your nutrition needs early. I royally screwed that up on race day.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your training! Looking forward to following it this year!
I think as long as you have people you can ask when you have a questions, you'll be fine without a coach. I was on my own for my iron distance and half iron last year and did fine. There are so many great training plans out there as long, just add your own determination and you will be awesome :)
ReplyDelete