Is there an off season for HIM IM training?

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2008-08-12 8:11 AM

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Subject: Is there an off season for HIM IM training?

Folks,

I did my first tri (oly distance) this year and really liked it. I would like to do a HIM and several shorter distances in 2009 and then a full IM in 2010. I know I can't go all out for the next two years. I have looked at several training plans that all seem to gear up 20 or so weeks from the event. Do you try to maintain the same workout frequency and drop the volume and intensity when you are outside the 20 week window? Should I do this in two steps one year for the half then step it up again for the full? This seems logical as opposed to start IM trining 2 years out. I think the body could use this time to acclimate to the added stress. Your thoughts please? I am a noobie to tri's, but have run 3 marathons so I am not new to endurance activities.

chevy57         

2008-08-12 9:45 AM
in reply to: #1596496

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Subject: RE: Is there an off season for HIM IM training?
I train year round, during the winter months volume goes down but intensity goes up especially on the bike.

Lots of people are forced inside during the winter, and will use the 'off season' to improve their limiter. In my case, I work on the bike. I think most people (1:30 IM swimmer) should spend the winter, swimming 5X a week. imo while maintain biking and running.
2008-08-12 11:25 AM
in reply to: #1596496

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Subject: RE: Is there an off season for HIM IM training?
I think you need to have a certain level of base fitness to train for a 1/2 or full IM, but I also think that 20-24 weeks is long enough to be specifically training for the event. To go longer, at least for me, gets both mentally and physically tiring.

Personally, I think the winter is for running and that's what I normally focus on. I'll still swim with the masters group a couple of times a week and try to ride once a week or so, but I generally try not to obsess about a specific training plan. I also like to lift a few more weights over the winter as I tend to lose muscle mass during the height of tri season.
2008-08-12 12:08 PM
in reply to: #1596496

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Subject: RE: Is there an off season for HIM IM training?

Hi, If you pick up a copy of Joe Fiels The Triathaletes Bible he describes this very well. He has you estimate how much time you can afford to give up to training thru the year and then explains what you should be doing.

As far as what I do, swim, bike, run plus weights August to January..more weights in this time period. Then in January I focus on swim, bike, run, each at least 3 times a week.

Good luck

Chris

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