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Choosing that first long IM plan

cfpetersoncfpeterson
in General Training Discussions

 Ok - so I am now nearing that Jan 31 deadline to save money on my first timer long IM plan and the question I raise is this: Beginner or Intermediate. I am 54 and have two 70.3s  behind me. Runner for years and swimmer only as last resort, I could use some guidance on the proper care and feeding of that first long course plan. My 70.3s are both around 6:15 - so slow. Any help appreciate.

Comments

  • Linda PatchLinda Patch

    Bill Russell to the courtesy phone.....

    I hope Bill checks in. He had experience with both the Int and Beg plans. Guess which one set him up for a whopping PR? image 

     

  • Coach RichCoach Rich

    Chuck,

    As a member you do not need to purchase training plans. They will be added to your account as needed.

  • cfpetersoncfpeterson
    OK - thanks.
  • NortonNorton

     Chuck,

    You'll still need to choose at some point. 

    How did you fare during the OS? Beginner or Intermediate? How was your recovery? For most of us in our 50s it's the biggest limiter. If we're not recovering well enough (be honest now!) additional training load is a waste of precious resources. 

    Training for an IM is rough stuff no matter how it's structured; most athletes wish/dream/delude themselves into thinking that they can handle more/harder training than they truly can. It's often tough to swallow our pride and ego and do "less", hell; you're stepping up to an Ironman, who wants to be a Beginner? Do we get training wheels? 

    I've backed off to the Beginner's OS and I'm much better for it. There's still plenty of work to be done but I'm not shelled; I'm happy and thriving. It's a better balance, for me. 

    Keep us posted on your choices and results; we're here and cheering for you!

  • jaybeardenjaybearden
    I'm on the Beginner OS level and I'm glad. I find it to be sufficient work. There's enough built in flexibility in this program I can always perform above and beyond if I have the right stuff. However, if I were doing the Intermediate level OS I would be obligated to meet the Intermediate standard and would fight to my last dying breath to meet that standard. (If you're going to do it, do it right.) This gives me some breathing room (recovery is probably better). Besides, my cycling is weak (understatement). Never been a serious cyclist. Running is my background. The Haus/Team EN is a superb learning environment and experience. Great training! I'll consider myself a serious cyclist after completing my first OS. And, I'm having fun to boot. image
  • RobertTRobertT

    Beginner not question about it.

    As it's your 1st full IM, do the plan that you can follow, rather than one that you hoped to follow.

    Consistency throughout the training is key to setting youself up for a great day.

    What Bill said about the recovery is 100% spot on.

    Being able to do all the workouts at the correct intensity requires you to be recovered sufficiently.

    Robert

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