How long does it take to train for a triathlon?
So how long does it take to train for a triathlon? Well, this is a bit of a loaded question.
The first thing to ask is, "Are you training for completion or for performance?"
In writing this, we are, for sake of the argument going to pretend like you have a base level of fitness appropriate for your race distance (e.g. training for an Olympic you can already swim 1k, bike 18-20 and run 3-4 miles).
In order to simply finish a race (once again, for which you have the base fitness) you really only need to look at about two months. For most athletes a six-week build with two months of taper is enough to finish.
Now, for performance I recommend a simple structure that enables you to get better at each sport while preparing for your race.
- Six week swim block
- Six week bike block
- Six week run
- Four week triathlon block (focus on brick workouts)
- Two week taper
Adding up to a grand total of 24 weeks, approximately six months of preparation for peak performance.
Let us know in the comments how long you train for the most important race of the season!
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