Ironman

The following is an example of an Ironman Training program (phase 3). Prior to starting any training, it is recommended you have a medical examination to ensure it is safe for you to do so.

Any application of this training program is at the athlete's own discretion and risk.

Key to notations and terms used

k = kilometres tpb = "target personal best" time for Triathlon

Phase 2

Each training session should include an appropriate warm up before the session and cool down after the session.

Week 1

Day Develop Session Effort
Monday Rest    
Tuesday Specific Strength Weight Training  
Wednesday Specific Endurance Swim 2k tpb
Thursday Rest    
Friday Specific Endurance Run - 20k tpb
Saturday Rest    
Sunday Specific Endurance Bike - 100k tpb

Week 2

Day Develop Session Effort
Monday Rest    
Tuesday Specific Strength Weight Training  
Wednesday Specific Endurance Swim 2.5k tpb
Thursday Rest    
Friday Specific Endurance Run - 25k tpb
Saturday Rest    
Sunday Specific Endurance Bike - 125k tpb

Week 3

Day Develop Session Effort
Monday Rest    
Tuesday Specific Strength Weight Training  
Wednesday Specific Endurance Swim 3k tpb
Thursday Rest    
Friday Specific Endurance Run - 30k tpb
Saturday Rest    
Sunday Specific Endurance Bike - 150k tpb

Week 4

Day Develop Session Effort
Monday Evaluation Bike - 60 min maximum distance 100%
Tuesday Strength Specific Weight Training  
Wednesday Evaluation Run - Cooper Test 100%
Thursday Strength Specific Weight Training  
Friday Evaluation Swim - 20 min maximum distance 100%
Saturday Rest    
Sunday Rest    

Race

If there is a major race then taper for 14 days when you:

  • reduce the total mileage by 80%
  • focus on high interval sessions (90% VO2max)
  • reduce frequency of training by 20%

For a minor race taper for 7 days and use the same strategy.

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page: