Best 1/2 training plan?

[bberk1]

What are your thoughts on the best 1/2 iron training plan? I use the one from beginnertriathlete.com for the 1 race I did. But I also saw the one on trinewbie.com. or are you so experienced you don't need a plan? In that case I'll bug you to write me a plan.

[Steve Yutzy]

The best plan is of course the one that works for you

I'm sure you can find things out there that range from making it impossible to even work part time to "your first 1/2 on 5 hours a week".

I train the way I cook, shoot from the hip with an overall goal in mind. Obviously this won't work for everyone, but it's really good at helping me accomplish my goal not letting triathlon consume my life. Over the past 5 seasons I've been tweaking things, figuring out what works for me and what doesn't.

As far as the online training plans go, I think they are usually a good starting point. Find one that looks like you can accomplish it, then tweak to your heart's content. If you need more swimming, swim more, etc. And don't underestimate the power of a good group workout, of which the club offers many.

[Brandon]

I've been thinking about how to best train for a 70.3 this summer as well. I agree with Steve, your best training plan is tailored specifically to your needs, ability, etc. Other than the online plans you mention, here is another one that I'm using for reference, which is basically built around the idea of 1 long bike with a run-off, and 1 long run per week:

www.trifuel.com/triathlon-training/Half-Ironman-Training.php

I have heard it said that the most important training workout for the 70.3 distance is the brick, and I am thinking I may base my training week around a big weekly brick this year. There are other ways to go about it. Last year I focused my training around 1 long bike, and 1 long (for me) run per week, which is probably more typical for a 140.6, but I was just trying to be sure I could cover the distance of the half (it was my first).

Good luck!