Subject: RE: run an ultra in early spring, then a 70.3 in summer, then PR a marathon in fall? Originally posted by toddaduran
Questions to all you who have done this a lot longer than me
I'm planning on running the Ice Age 50 miler in may, then a 70.3 in July or August, then a marathon in the fall.
Would it be difficult (or even impossible) to train for all 3 events and do well, or would 1 event have to suffer because of lack of training?
It's doable, and I would start w/ a run focus for sure. In 2013, I trained for a 50 miler that I ran in May (Collegiate Peaks Half ). Vast majority of my training was running during the winter (although I relied on some swimming while dealing with a strained calf muscle ). After the race I started to focus more on cycling but still managed to PR a half-marathon in early August. I then did a 70.3 in October (Austin ), and I was on track for a 70.3 PR as well. Unfortunately, I crashed the bike at about 50 miles so it didn't happen.
The ultra will give you plenty of base which means you won't need to run as much leading up to the 70.3 and you can integrate some swimming as a "recovery" workout during your ultra running as well. After the 50 miler, I'd switch to a bike emphasis. I think the bike will present the biggest challenge for you. After the 70.3, you'll be able to switch back to a bit more running for the Marathon. Personally, I think a lot of the challenge in Marathons is "mental." Best of luck! |