Ironman Training Time (Swim weakness)?

Question

I've always wanted to complete an Ironman.

I have run several marathons and bicycled several centuries. I've been running for 9 years and bicycling for 3 (road bike for 2).

I'm 23 years old (female).

I've never tapered or trained specifically for any event, just really enjoy to run and bicycle and that keeps me in shape to do these so I'll jump in and do them as training runs... (16-20 hours a week of training, including running, bicycling, weight training) This has resulted in my marathon time, 4:42 and my century time- 6:15, but on a flat course. I'm not sure how much difference a taper would make in these, if any.

I have done several duathlons, including long course duathlons.

My swim however, is very much a weakness. I just learned how this last year and it's still not pretty.

My goal for the Ironman would just be to finish (no time goal). Is this something I can realistically do in the next two years or am I being overly optimistic?

Answer 1

Congrats on having such a realistic goal! Ironman distance races are very challenging especially your first. I would recommend finding a coach or a masters swim team. For that kind of distance you need quite a bit of pool time otherwise you'll get tired and you might start using your legs too much (and therefore your legs would be tired for your bike and run). There's also the added challenge of the transition zone after the swim (getting into shoes with wet feet... not fun) Definately look into a coach, there are lots of triathlon swim groups. Within a year you should probably do some triathlon races, then before you know it you'll be ready! Remember the swim is just as important as the run and bike, so train just as much. Good Luck!!

Answer 2

My grandpa has the same problem. He can bike and run really well, but when doing his triathalons he always gets behind because he doesn't really know the proper strokes and when to breathe and all of that. It's hard to teach him, but since you are much younger and more open, I believe that you could learn the proper ways to swim and breathe and if you train for two years while still keeping your normal exercising plan you can finish the Ironman. That is a great goal and I hope you complete it!