Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??

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2005-02-03 2:09 PM

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Atlanta, Georgia
Subject: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
Hi, I am new to exercise and thinking (what has gotten into me) that I might like to try to do a sprint. There is a Danskin in Florida on May 25th or I could just keep training and try for the Raymond James women's only August (Atlanta). The training program listed on this site takes 8/9 months. I realistically have about 15 weeks. Is it possible to do? I walk already with a friend several days a week. I have seen 12 week programs but I just wonder if there is anyone else who has gone from couch to sprint in about that time? Thanks!

2005-02-03 2:37 PM
in reply to: #112157

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Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
Well, I will chime in. I am doing a 12 week program and modifying the run with a portion of the couch to 5k program to suit my running abilities. I would say it all depends on your physical condition now and if you just want to finish or not. Are you new to exercise and overweight or just new to exercise? That would make a big difference in how fast you progress as well. I myself just want to finish and assess my abilities so I figure who cares if I am "ready" or not. I just want something to go on, and to test the waters. If you have to push yourself so hard that you risk injury give it more time. If you can comfortably do the 15 week program then why not. Do an honest self-assessment.
2005-02-03 2:38 PM
in reply to: #112157

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Champion
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Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??

Some really basic questions first .....Can you swim? Do you have a bike? How far can you run now? Do you have ANY background in atheletics? Do you have any medical conditions that would complicate your training?

Personally, I think that it is within the realm of possibility (it might be quite difficult though).

Difficult is good......makes you strong like owl.....smart like ox ;-)

If you can swim now, that will cut a lot of the anxiety out of the picture. Perhaps a good test for yourself would be to try each of the legs as a separate event ie. can you swim the distance? can you cover the distance on the bike, can you cover the distance for the run (even if you walk some)?

If you cannot cover the distances, do they seem within your capabilities? In other words, maybe you can't swim 500 or 750 yards, but do you, assuming that you attempted it and did not make it, feel like you can make it in the time you have to train. Only you can know this.

A whole lot of training can take place between now and the end of May. You might just be in for some great surprizes.

On the other hand (what's this three hands now?) You should certainly be able to complete a spring in August is you start training now. even if you can't swim a lick, need training wheels and can't tie your shoes. ;-)

welcome to the madhouse!

2005-02-03 2:44 PM
in reply to: #112157

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Master
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Raleigh, North Carolina
Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??

Ron has got a 13 week training program posted as well.  I stuck the link below.  I think that if you can sustain a 20 minute jog/run it might be applicable to you because the timing is just about right.  If you feel uncomfortable being able to sustain a 20 min run/jog, then it might be more in your interest to do one of the Couch to Sprint programs to ensure that you remain injury free. 

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/cms/article-detail.asp?articleid=261

I followed this site's 16 week 3x sprint program, which worked very well for me, but I vividly remember those first couple of runs and swims.  The first couple of weeks were very tough, and I did experience a lot of soreness in weeks 1-3.  After that, it just became easier.   Good luck with whatever you decide on.

2005-02-03 2:49 PM
in reply to: #112157

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Elite Veteran
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Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
There's also a sprint in Hilton Head SC in September (10th). Little bit further out, and maybe a little bit cooler...august...ick.

(edited to say)
jkbostic beat me to the 13 week sprint plan, no need for 2 links.

Good luck

Edited by madeye 2005-02-03 2:51 PM
2005-02-03 3:09 PM
in reply to: #112179

Regular
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2525
Atlanta, Georgia
Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
Yes, I can swim - not great but a few laps. Yes, I have a bike - Old Peugeot 12 speed but in great shape. Jog a little but working on more. I just want to finish to see if I can. Thanks to all for the feedback!


2005-02-03 3:58 PM
in reply to: #112157

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2005-02-03 3:58 PM
in reply to: #112157

Master
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Shreveport, LA
Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
I bought the following book:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?userid=...

It has an 11 or 12 week program that I am doing right now. As this will be my first tri as well.

The swimming is my favorite or second favorite part of the tri, but it is the hardest for me to do.

I am still learning the correct technique of how to swim freestyle. I always want to sprint from one end of the pool to the other. It is hard for me to learn to swim longer distances.

2005-02-03 8:57 PM
in reply to: #112157

Coach
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Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
When I did my first tri, I could only do each leg separately...and barely at that. I figured there's no reason I coulnd't do them end to end. Look at it this way... The swim, most challanging for many, is first, so you probably won't drown. THe bike is at least half downhill assuming it's a loop, and the running...well, you can always walk, which is what I did. It whetted my appetite, and now I'm doing a real training routine form my next sprint!
2005-02-03 10:05 PM
in reply to: #112157

Pro
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Keller, Texas
Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
I am also doing the sprint in May. If you can do each distance individually, you should be ok. As long as you don't set an unrealistic goal, and you race to finish, you will do great. Are you sure of that date? I thought the race was the 15th

2005-02-03 11:00 PM
in reply to: #112157

Master
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Subject: RE: Couch to sprint-Possible by May 25th??
I think most people in reasonable shape can simply finish a sprint with no training at all assuming they can swim the 500 M. Not that that is good for you, but I think there is pleanty of time to train for a finish. remember there is no time limit on most sprints.


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