extreme triathlon iron distance training plan (24 weeks + S&C)

This is a 24-week triathlon training plan to prepare you for the unique demands of an extreme triathlon at the “Iron” distance or slightly longer. It is ideally suited to those training for events such as Norseman Xtreme Triathlon, Swissman, Celtman, ICON.

In its third iteration, this plan has been updated following athlete feedback after successful black t-shirt finishes at Norseman Xtreme Triathlon and others.

The plan is designed for experienced athletes, already familiar with triathlon training and preferably with triathlon experience. If you are new to extreme triathlon, you should start with the 16-week half-Iron distance training plan first, then add this on for bespoke prep for your race.

It contains bespoke workouts tailored for the swim, bike and run, including specifics around the course profile and the unique challenges presented by extreme triathlons (terrain, altitude etc.). The workouts can be personalised based on your goal race, so you can tailor the plan for Norseman and take into account specific factors such as Zombie Hill, for example.

The plan covers 24 weeks, split into 2 build weeks followed by a recovery week. There is a 3-week taper.

Additionally, there is a progressive Strength & Conditioning plan complementing each stage of training, starting with Stability, then Strength followed by Power.