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2005-09-01 7:38 AM


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Subject: Training Plans for Ironman
I am looking for a training plan for an Ironman Wisconsin 2006. I know it's early but I want to use this time to pick a plan. Some of the plans I've read have you starting with a different base than the next. I've found plans from 20 to 36 weeks. If there's a plan someone tried and loved I would like to look into it. If there is a plan that may not have worked out that may be useful info as well. I am using a Polar HRM that has an option for downloading training plans. I believe Mike Pigg helped write the Triathlon plan. Is this a possible choice for me? I am from NE Wisconsin so early season workouts will be done indoors. Thanks


2005-09-01 8:19 AM
in reply to: #238718

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Pro
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Woodstock,GA
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman

If this is your first IM I suggest that you get a coach.

2005-09-01 8:45 AM
in reply to: #238718

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Master
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Maine
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
My first IM will be Lake Placid next year. I'm planning on following the 13 week plan in Gail Bernhardt's book. I followed a twenty week plan for 1/2 IM this year, and while that worked pretty well, being "confined" to a plan for that long was kind of hard.  I'm planning on building a big ole' base between now and then, with lots of long swims, rides, and runs. I'm in Maine, so I'm dealing with the same weather issues as you...
2005-09-03 7:48 PM
in reply to: #238718

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Extreme Veteran
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Madison, WI
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
This is my second crack at IMWI. I tried a 36-week program last year and it was way too difficult to stay focused especially since the WI tri season does not start till Mid May. My Advice would be to use now until march to work on Core Strength, Swimmining technique, and base fitness or whatever your weaknesses are. Then begin a program in March. Shoot for an early season tri to test fitness, Mid summer IM to see where you are at, spreading our races in to keep things interesting.

Depending on your personality and workout ethic, a coach might be helpful or it might not be worth the money. I had good luck customizing a program based on Joel Friel's book "The Triathlete's Training Bible".

Whatever you do...good luck! I'll be volunteering again next year...

Mike

2005-09-05 10:09 AM
in reply to: #238718

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Boulder, Colorado
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
In November we'll be posting Ironman training plans on this site bt.com - we'll make an announcement once they are posted. They will include on-line support as well.
2005-09-05 9:11 PM
in reply to: #238718

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Extreme Veteran
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Madison, WI
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
Mike-

Any chance we might see a Half IM training program from you?

Looking forward to seeing the IM workout...just need to upgrade my membership

Thanks!


2005-09-05 9:56 PM
in reply to: #241085

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Boulder, Colorado
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
Mike

We'll have just about everything from IM to 1/2 IM to Winter Maintenance, to Oly to 1/2 IM to 1/2 IM to IM - we should have it rolled out in the next 6-8 weeks.

Thanks for the kind words Mike!
2005-09-05 10:14 PM
in reply to: #238718

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Regular
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Lone Tree, CO
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
I just did IM Canada and used the training plan for BT.  It worked really well for me.  I can't wait to see what the new on looks like.
2005-09-05 10:22 PM
in reply to: #238718

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Elite
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Chicago
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman

I must say that getting a coach would definately be well advised when undetaking your first IM.

There are many folks that structure their own IM training plan by reading books and talking to folks but that is really a disservice to yourself as an athlete as you won't be racing to your potential on race day.

That being said, if you just want to finish the IM and not really do your "best" but rather just complete the IM as your goal, then I suppose structuring your own plan could be done and you could accomplish your goal.  I, however, am not at all like that.  If I do something, I really want to give it my all and do the best that I can.

Another reason a coach is good to have when pushing the endurance envelope is that there are several things that are counterintuitive in endurance training that the "new" athlete may not understand or consider.  Here are just a few of the things I mean that a coach can explain to you as well as incorporate in your training to make your first IM a great race-to-your-potential experience.

1.  train slow to get fast

2. swim swim swim in training even though it's only a very small percentage of the race

3. don't do the typical long bike on saturday followed by the typical long run on sunday (ok, maybe NOT so counterintuitive but you'd be surprised at how many folks still do this when training for their first IM)

The most difficult thing for the first IM is getting to the starting line injury free while not undertraining so that you can race to your potential.  After all, the IM is a RACE and not a charity bike ride or something.  RIGHT??!? 

2005-09-06 11:24 AM
in reply to: #241119

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Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
Get a reliable Coach. I mean reliable in that the coach is recommended to you from other triathlete's. I have two coaches: one for my body testing, the other for my plan. I found them to be useful in there own ways but they both also have their faults. But perhaps the biggest advantage with the coaches is that they can provide outside feedback to your training schedule, even if you did it yourself and I'm slowly beginning to realize this..

2005-09-12 5:38 AM
in reply to: #238718

Member
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Hamilton, Ontario
Subject: RE: Training Plans for Ironman
I followed a bunch of different programs for a while and then settled on the 30 week program in the book "Be Iron Fit" by Don Fink. In this book he outlines three different detailed plans depending on your goals and ability. I did the most intensive one which still only peaked at 20 hours a week.I just finished my first iron distance race in 12:20 which may not be fast but I felt great at the finish (just as Fink predicited one would who followed this program.) In fact, the race seemed easier than I expected (not saying it was EASY by any stretch, just not as tough as I was fearing)so Imust have been prepared.As far as I'm concerned these plans worked for me.


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