Subject: RE: Training Plans: New to triathlons, but high fitness base I've had similar issues ever since starting tri. You can always modify the part of an existing plan that seems too easy for you. For example, if you're a beginner on the bike and swim, those parts of the beginner plan might be okay for you but you might benefit from adding more run volume and speedwork. You do need to keep in mind that tri training is different from run-only training--the bike will really take it out of your legs, esp. if you don't have much background in it, so you won't be doing the same volume and intensity as you would with run-only training. Plus the time demands are considerably greater with tri training.
I have similar issues with most packaged plans, as I had a strong run and swim background but zero on the bike (besides short commutes and casual touring ) before starting tri. I often switch up the swim using online master's sites, or the run with input from programs such as Hal Higdon's intermediate plans for the appropriate distance (i.e. the 10K plan for Olys ), just choosing the key workout days--normally 1-2 speedwork, 1-2 easy, and 1 long run. You might also take a look at the intermediate Oly plan--I'm loosely following it now and it's not all that difficult if you have a strong run background. The intermediate plans vary--some would be doable by most people with a strong background in 1-2 sports; others (like the half ironman one ) are really quite hard and you'd probably need a more thorough base in each discipline before attempting it. |