Here are some macro level tips on how we suggest you continue.
1 – Separate Running from Your Triathlon Training
You cant just increase the running your triathlon training course and expect to see final results. Youll see change for sure, but many of the enhancements is going to be short-term. Other deltas will most likely include sub-par biking performance and improve levels of physical and mental fatigue.
Begin the cycle off right through an exercise break before transforming into a runner. Starting a major run block just fourteen days just after your previous race is usually a recipe for issues.
At the same time, we encourage you to leave the Fast then Far mentality behind to do this run focused block. As youll only be running, youll have many time to rack up the miles and hours. A longer period spent training means the intensity must come down if you’re to absorb it.
Rather than two hard runs (out of four) per week, this may mean lowering to just one short time period run at threshold pace (5 x 3 minutes at Threshold with 2 minutes of rest after each, for example) with the remainder of your runs done in zones 1 and 2. Or maybe you hold the severeness for the latter stages of your plan; you may skip it totally. Only you know whats best.
2 – Define Yourself As A Runner
Part of the separation method listed above is about obtaining your identity as a runner. The running activity is different than triathlon in that the type of recovery required is significantly more intense. The fueling necessities are not the same, both within your workout routines and across your day. Take the time to find this niche, as what you think youll require (once you begin) could eventually differ than what youll actually need (as you evolve).
You should also consider a review of your running technique. In fact, if you are planning to spend 100% of your exercise doing one thing, you would like to be good at that thing! You will find lots of resources available online, from clinics to coaches, from DVDs to mp3s. Explore what resonates for yourself and spend quality early time building a new skill sets.
3 – Cautiously & Consistently Conquer Volume
A mouthful for sure, however if you’ll be able to remember the mantra youll be much better off. As a new runner the urge will probably be there to cook yourself. Road races surpass triathlons about 8:1 in most places, meaning youll have weekday and weekend options to put the hammer down. Resist.
Start your new plan with the same number of runs youve been performing as a triathlete. Add time to each run then reduce that time into a new day by day run; then do it again. Good running form is like wine, the longer you give it, the more effective it will likely be. Once you have recently been at the new running game for 6-8 weeks, you can start considering doing longer runs. By longer I mean anything over 1 hour 30 minutes.
Don’t go crazy. The average triathlete, no matter what goal race distance, uses anywhere from 8 to 14 hours weekly training across all three disciplines. By comparison, a high volume running week doesnt take a lot of time, and its tempting to add more to the mix. For someone who averages 8:30/miles, putting in a 50 mile week is only a seven hour undertaking.
4 – Pick A Goal, Not A Race
Its very easy to drop a marathon on calendar in 5 months, its another thing to train for it. Suddenly youll have a goal time and a target pace. Next thing you realize, you’re measuring each run against those metrics. Before too long you might be burned out and also run projects a bust.
Rather than racing, choose non-performance related objectives which can be consistent with a new approach to running. Maybe aim for a 30-days/30-runs challenge; or perhaps aim to run a fixed number of distance for a fixed number of days (8 miles per day for 8 days). Perhaps theres a nearby hill you desire to get over or you like to take a look at every trail option in the nearby state park. Whatever your aim, make it both challenging and fun.
Theres absolutely nothing to stop you from getting in a competition on short notice should things work out, but dont allow it to be the carrot/stick that gets you going.
ironman training