Distance vs. Time

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2008-07-17 2:32 PM

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Subject: Distance vs. Time
Hi,

Why are most training plans built on time, and not distance? I am curious as we all run and ride at different paces, how does it balance out?
I'm interested in the HIM to IM bridge or beginner IM plans, and they seem to be in time. But I'm so slow! LOL

Thanks!
Betsy

2008-07-18 9:01 AM
in reply to: #1537604

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Subject: RE: Distance vs. Time
Shoot, I had a long post all drafted up (and I thought I posted it already) and now I can't find it. Bummer!

The long and the short of it is, I'm trying to find the right IM plan for me. I'd prefer to see distance (in addition to time) in the training plan. I read all the posts on why the plans use time, but I feel like I'll have to go the distance on race day, so I'd like the confidence builder during training that I'm actually doing the distance necessary.

So.... I see that only the Advanced plan has distance, but it also says that it is for veteran IMers, which I am not. Should I still use that plan b/c its the only one that has distance in it? And just give it my best shot? The total time listed on the plans (Adv vs. Int vs. Beg) doesn't look too different, so what are the main differences? Ramp time perhaps?

I have completed several Olys and HIM over the past 6 years. I've been on the HIM plan (free one this spring/summer.) Doing the Peak and Long Course this weekend/August 10th respectively. Personal circumstances have me without a job and my husband OK with me just training for an IM (and hopefully completing) before I start looking for a new job. So basically I have all the time to train, rest and recover... I just need the right plan! We are deciding between Silverman (close to us but scared of the elevation gain) or the Great Floridian (harder to get to, but much flatter!)

Thoughts? Sorry that wasn't as eloquent as before... gotta let the dog out. ;-)

Edited by bestbets 2008-07-18 9:18 AM
2008-07-18 11:20 AM
in reply to: #1539404

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Subject: RE: Distance vs. Time

bestbets - 2008-07-18 10:01 AM I'm trying to find the right IM plan for me. I'd prefer to see distance (in addition to time) in the training plan. I read all the posts on why the plans use time, but I feel like I'll have to go the distance on race day, so I'd like the confidence builder during training that I'm actually doing the distance necessary. So.... I see that only the Advanced plan has distance, but it also says that it is for veteran IMers, which I am not. Should I still use that plan b/c its the only one that has distance in it? And just give it my best shot?

Ironman training is serious stuff and the Advanced IM plan and it's description, which was written by Level III certified USAT coach Mike Ricci, specifically states that it's for people who have already done an Ironman, so we're not going to recommend going against his advice. If you haven't done an IM yet, this is not the plan for you unless a qualified coach familiar with your history and abilities says otherwise.

 

The total time listed on the plans (Adv vs. Int vs. Beg) doesn't look too different, so what are the main differences? Ramp time perhaps?

From the plan description:

Difference between the other Ironman plans offered
The difference between this plan and the Beginner Ironman Plan or the Intermediate 20 Week Ironman plan would be that you are adding in longer swim workouts, putting some more time into Zone 3 and 4, learning how to negative split runs, more time spent in upper Zone 2 on the bike etc. Its really the small things that make up the difference and by looking at it, it may look like it's the same level of difficulty, but once you are executing the plan, you'll have a different point of view. Its harder than it looks.

 

While the Intermediate 20 week IM plan peaks at 15 hours, this 17 week Advanced IM plan consistently gets to 16 and 17.5 hours of weekly volume.

 

If you are executing your 2nd or 3rd IM, this plan is perfect. The training doesn't change when you get faster - you just go faster in training and hopefully in racing. So, being able to do the same work but faster is what we all want. Executing this plan for 17 weeks would give people with one Ironman under their belts very good preparation for a 2nd and 3rd.

 

Given that you have what seem like some very specific requirements for a training plan, it seems like your best bet for choosing a training plan would be to work one on one with a coach via our Gold Performance Membership or if you're willing to spend the money, perhaps with a local coach.

2008-07-18 11:46 AM
in reply to: #1540000

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Subject: RE: Distance vs. Time
Hi Mike,

Thank you so much! I appreciate your response.

I guess I just really liked the seeing the distance layed out in the plan, as opposed to just time. I will use a time based plan that is already out there, since I dont have the money for a one-one coach right now.

Thanks!
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