Ironman Training & Racing Observations
In my time observing, racing and coaching Ironman triathlon I have come across many very clever, complicated training methods, but the bottom line is, the most basic tried and tested methods often reap the most benefits. Here are some thoughts on Ironman training and racing:
- There is no easy way! We all have goals. Goals are meant to be meaningful, therefore challenging, which requires a consistent level of training over many months or even years.
- An athlete’s training plan should be based around a simple weekly structure that they are able to repeat 90% of the time. There is no point loading up the athlete with undue stress; this knock on effect will lead to issues in their non-triathlon lives (family, work, social life, etc).
- It’s OK to rest! The greatest thing that most triathletes can add to their program is some rest/recovery or an extra hour of sleep every night.
- All the fitness in the world is useless if you’re sick or injured on race day! Arriving at your race fit and fresh is imperative for a successful race.
- When training for Ironman and you’re unsure whether to include more intensity or volume, go for volume every time. We are training for a nine to seventeen hour event.
- One of the best indicators of likely race performance is not field tests, but consistency of training over the 6 months prior to your A race.
- You might be an amazing runner, but running fitness is meaningless if you arrive in T2 too tired to use it. Ironman race performance builds off superior cycling fitness.
- There’s nothing “fast” about Ironman racing. The high-end intensity sessions are the least specific in an Ironman training plan.Too much intensity can hamper recovery and lead to biomechanical issues.
Do you agree? What are your thoughts on my Ironman training observations?
