What A Sprint Triathlon Training Plan Might Look Like

When you are training for a triathlon there are a number of things to consider, stroke methodology, gear, swimming faster, the transitions and more. But the most important part of preparing thoroughly for a triathlon is the training plan you use and that hopefully comes from an experienced triathlon coach. A good training plan will not just get you, fitter, it will help you improve in each event, and not just focus on the one or ones you are better at. Here are some things a sprint triathlon training plan should keep in mind.

What fitness level are you starting from?

If you are already working out and have good cardio fitness then your plan would be different from if you are not working out at all. If you do not yet know how to ride a bike or swim then that certainly needs working on! With basic fitness and knowledge of all three events, you can get going on a training schedule to improve things. That would be about a 12 week schedule where you are running 3 times a week, swimming 3 times a week and cycling 3 times a week. Distances can vary but build up so that you can handle each distance not just separately but consecutively since that is how the race works.

Admit it if you are a beginner at something

If you are doing this from a less active starting point you are going to have to get yourself in better shape and triathlon coaching can help. It might start with walking rather than jogging or running, and then get you to where you are improving rather than learning. Such a schedule should be started earlier. It is tempting to push yourself harder but make sure your plan allows for rest and recovery times. If you are a beginner at swimming that does not mean you cannot do triathlons, it just means you need to learn how or practice until you become more accomplished.

The great thing about the sprint triathlon and why it is a good starting point is that you do not have to go as far in the water and so you can endure the swim distance with help from your triathlon coach. Your week would be something like Monday work on your swimming, Tuesday get on a bike and run, Wednesday swim again, Thursday bike and run, Friday swim, Saturday bike and run and maybe Sunday work on transitions or keep as a recovery day. Later on, you can change it so some of the days you are doing all 3 events.

Conclusion

Triathlon coaching is not just for professional athletes or even for only serious amateurs. Anyone can benefit from their experience and knowledge. Spend your schedule working hard on all three events, but especially on the one that you are weaker at. Almost all triathletes have one event they look forward to the least and it is tempting to work harder at the other two to ‘catch up’ time lost in that event. The better plan builds you up in that weaker event.