Signing up for an Ironman Triathlon is a big commitment. Check out these helpful Tips for Ironman Training!

Tips for Ironman Training

Be Selective When Choosing Your Race

The Ironman is a huge commitment. Take a look at several races. Then, talk to people who have done the race. Look up information on-line, etc. to make sure it is the right fit. For example, if you dislike hilly terrain and are not used to training on it, maybe Ironman Lake Placid is not for you. Or if you live and train in a cold climate, but then find yourself in the heat of Ironman Texas, it could be a struggle. Of course, with the proper preparation, anything can be done, but try to take into consideration all of the variables of the event.  Will your family & friends be there to help sherpa? Do you have young children that will be there? Is there housing close to the event for convenience, etc.?  I could write an entire post on this, but briefly, envision the entire event from start (the day you arrive) to finish and imagine how it will work. This may sound like overkill, but the last thing you will want is extra stress about things outside of the race, so if you can pre-plan, it will take that piece out of the equation.

Make Sure You Have the Proper Equipment

You will be spending a lot of time training, so having the proper equipment is essential. This is particularly important for cycling, as this is the longest segment of the event. Visit this website for any cycling gear you may need.

Have a Bike Fit

One of the best things you can do is have a proper bike fit.  A bike fit typically involves an hour or more of time with someone specifically trained in body mechanics for cycling.   A good bike fit will make you more aerodynamic, but most importantly, it will make sure you are in the proper ergonomic position to prevent injury.

Get Help

I would recommend hiring a coach if it is possible. Once again, this is a big deal and a number of things will come up during your training that you will be thankful to have an expert on speed dial to ask questions! It is also great for time management. The training is intense and time-consuming, so having someone put together your training plan is very helpful & efficient! However, if this approach is not for you, joining a local triathlon club can also be very helpful resource.

Talk to Other People Who Have Done the Distance 

Chat it up with other friends that have done Ironman distance races. Listen to their experiences, lessons, & advice. You will hear different things from each person, but take away the information that best applies to you and your plan for completing the event

Don't Worry About Other People's Training Plans 

By this I mean, listen to personal experiences, as mentioned above, but don't get caught up in comparing training plans.  If one friend has done 2 century rides during training & your plan only calls for 1, don't worry about it. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses & goals for the race. "Trust Your Training" and the process.

Be Flexible 

Training for an Ironman is a long & time consuming process. Be flexible, you will miss a few workouts and that is ok! Most training plans allow for that so don't stress out if this happens. However, if you can find ways to move your workouts around to get everything in, that is great! For example, if you have a 3 hour ride & 30 minute run planned on Saturday, then end up in a time crunch, perhaps you can move it to Sunday & do a shorter workout on the Saturday.

So Tell Me..

Are your considering training for an Ironman Triathlon? Have you done one? If so, what would you add to the list?

Thank you so much for stopping by. As always, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below. Have a great weekend!