HALF ON A DOUBLE?

Q Can you train for a 70.3 on one workout a day?

James Robertson A You can but, as training is cumulative, you may need to start training earlier than a standard plan to give you more time to build. The make-up of the different sessions should depend on your strengths and weaknesses. For example, if you’re an excellent swimmer, you may choose not to train your swimming in the first 75% of your plan to allow you to focus on weaker disciplines.

It’s also worth recognising that sessions and blocks of when you can train are two different things. For example, you could use the time block for two sessions. This would maximise the training you do in a 60 or 90-minute session. A coach will be invaluable in helping identify how to prioritise your sessions more than a plan could. Doing two sessions per day increases the training load and arguably performance by decreasing the time between training and consolidating adaption.

All plans should advocate the minimum training dose for maximum effect but removing sessions will reduce your possible performance. One session per day will likely mean you have more time to recover, so if you’re injury prone, are an older athlete or need longer to recover, you may consider fewer sessions in a week. If you have the time to do two sessions per day and recover, this will likely yield better results but may add a risk of injury, especially for busy people.

To summarise, following a plan with one session a day will be enough for a 70.3, but you may need to consider starting it earlier and compound the sessions to maximise your time. However, a coach will ensure you only do specific sessions and would be your wisest investment.

Philip Hatzis

Need advice or help with any aspect of your multisport training and/or racing? Simply send an email to coaching@220triathlon.com for a chance to be featured.