Welcome

I started this blog in 2010 when there were 11 weeks to go before my next Ironman triathlon. People have found it interesting (mainly my Mum!) so I continue to write.
The Ironman is a long distance triathlon; Swim 2.4miles, Cycle 112miles, Run 26.2 miles (marathon). I have competed in one every year since 2004. I hope this blog can help others see what is involved. I find the process of writing it makes me more accountable and motivates me to do the harder sessions when i'm not feeling like it!

Thursday 13 May 2010

On Sunday it'll be 11 weeks until the UK ironman starts. This will happen at 6:30am, 1st August in a cold lake near Bolton.

Back in 2003 when I started thinking about doing one of these I had a million and one questions; Was I capable, what stuff did I need, what/how would I eat, how much training would be needed - could this be done in a town like London, maybe I would need a break from work, etc etc,

This is why I have started the blog - to try and answer some of these questions.

Most training programs I have followed (usually by paying a coach) are in 11 week chunks. This year I will attempt to take the best parts from all of these and follow them. I have never managed to stick to a week perfectly due to work, family or fatigue. Hopefully that will encourage you, it's progress not perfection.

In five weeks time I have entered the UK half ironman. This will give me some idea of where I am, and can trial most things out. As the focus is the Ironman itself, I wont taper (reduce volume of training) for this.

As well as the specific swim cycle and run sessions I hope to cover some of the following topics;
Injury prevention
Strength training
Stretching
Nutrition
Psychology
Equipment

And my favourite - what music is best to train to

There are also a lot of people out there who know a lot more than me. I would love to receive your feedback both good and bad especially any tips you may have picked up.

Previously I have raised money for the Cri Du Chat Support Group . My son George has this condition and the charity do some great work to help individuals and families affected. If you find this site useful I would be enormously grateful if you could show your appreciation by leaving a donation.




Please note this is my first attempt at blogging and so far have an afternoon's experience. Hopefully it will get more professional as the weeks go by!


James