Triathlon – Olympic or Standard Distance Training Plan

All of our Training Plans cover all three disciplines and are designed to be suitable for the majority of athletes competing at the respective events. Click on the link below to purchase your plan from Training Peaks.

This is an Olympic Distance triathlon training plan lasting 20 weeks. It is organised so there are 8 weeks of base training, 8 weeks of build training and 4 weeks of competition specific training.

20 weeks

Sessions per week: 3 run, 3 swim, 3 bike

Average weekly volume: 9.3 hours

Download Training Peaks Training Plan ($50)

This Olympic or standard distance training plan has been written by the experienced Coaches at Tri Training Harder and has been generated after a review of thousands of training plans. We have taken our most popular sessions, format and schedule from years of online coaching with hundreds of athletes and we have put them together with new structured workouts where appropriate to create this Olympic Distance triathlon training plan.

Format

In this Olympic Distance training plan we generally have tried to stick to a weekly structure of:

3 Swim Sessions
3 Bike Sessions
3 Run Sessions

Schedule

We also recognise that most people have more time to train at the weekend, as such the longer sessions are scheduled for the weekend, with weekday sessions kept shorter.

This plan is certainly appropriate for the individual looking to record a PB at the Olympic distance. Due to the way we have set the plan up, almost any ability can train using it to great success. The sessions will adapt for you and build with you as you progress and improve. We have included key test sessions and of course the training peaks auto threshold adapter, will adjust as you get stronger! The plan starts reasonably steady and builds sensibly with a peak and taper into your Olympic distance race ensuring you arrive at the start line ready to go and fully rested.

What Gadgets do I need?

You can complete this plan using your sense of feel (RPE) and a timer (e.g. stop watch). However, you can also use more advanced metrics like heart rate monitors, or power meters, link sessions to Zwift (or equivalent) using the session builder or even use running power meters – you can go as technological as you want! Each session allows you to choose what works best for you in the description and you can train in your preferred manner.

Do I get any more assistance?

Throughout the training plan, you also get links to helpful articles or videos to see how to do drills, learn more about the race and give you some psychological tools.

Furthermore, if you want more assistance, just be in touch and we can connect you with a coach who can review your training, talk you through any concerns or questions you have make any adjustments if you need it.

Enjoy!

Want to speak to a coach?

TriathlonTri Training HarderNovember 20, 2018

Can you avoid drafting in triathlons? Navigating Reality and Making the Most of Your Race

In this latest article, Coach José explores how drafting is a part of the sport, why there are drafting rules, what to do if you find yourself stuck amongst the drafting group, and how to ensure you race with integrity.

What Makes Tri Training Harder's Athlete Network Special?

In this article, we explore Tri Training Harder’s community-driven approach and how building a supportive and inclusive athlete network fosters success. Featuring stories from Tri Training Harder community members, the article highlights how collaboration and shared knowledge positively impact athletes, emphasising the value of a collective, inclusive environment for athletes of all levels.

Why should you Integrate Physiotherapy and Nutrition into Endurance Training

This article explores the science behind endurance training, focusing on the crucial roles of physiotherapy and nutrition. With insights from Tri Training Harder’s expert partners, including physiotherapists and nutritionists, we highlight how their expertise is integrated into training plans to enhance athlete performance and prevent injury, underscoring the importance of a well-rounded approach to endurance training.

What is The Power of Holistic Endurance Coaching?

This article delves into the power of holistic coaching, emphasising our comprehensive approach that goes beyond just a training plan. By incorporating mental, physical, and emotional support, this coaching strategy has helped athletes thrive. Testimonials from current athletes highlight the significant benefits of this well-rounded methodology, reinforcing the importance of a holistic approach to coaching.

How can you Balance Endurance Training with a Busy Life: Tips from Tri Training Harder

This article explores practical strategies for balancing endurance training with a busy lifestyle. Drawing on insights from TTH coaches, the article offers advice on effective time management, prioritising workouts, and finding the right balance between triathlon training, work commitments, and personal life.

How is fear transmitted amongst athletes before an endurance event?

At some recent events, we have overheard athletes talking about their concerns and have been intrigued by how their fears have rippled out. In this latest article, Coach Philip explores how fear is spread and how it can impact athletes. More importantly, he also identifies how athletes can mitigate this group-social effect and rise above this group phenomenon.

What happens to my swim speed in open water

For most triathletes the majority of their swim training is done in a swimming pool. While this allows for the athlete to spend time on drills, technique and speed work, most triathlons involve a swim in open water. In this article Coach Denise looks at what impacts your speed when moving from the pool into open water.

What should you wear for a cold triathlon?

Although racing in the UK has many perks, one downside is that we don’t usually get the excessive heat that some of our European and US friends are accustomed to racing in. In this article, Coach Philip explores some top tips for racing in the cold.

Warming up for the swim, on the land

The first leg of any triathlon event is the swim, but how can you make sure that you are ready to race from the starting hooter? In some events it is possible to get into the water for a quick few minutes recce, but this is often not an option. In this blog Coach Denise takes a look at how you can get ready to race from the moment you enter the water.

Getting into cold water – acclimatising and having fun

At the start of race season, as thoughts turn to open water swims, one of the key considerations is, just how do you swim comfortably in cold water. In this article Coach Denise uses her extensive experience of swimming in Scotland to look at how best to make the transition from the pool to outside, helping you to have the best swim leg you can.

Planning to fuel or fuelling to plan?

Every year, nutrition and its strategies take centre stage in our conversations with athletes. It's a subject that sparks genuine curiosity and interest. Yet, the challenge lies in translating this knowledge into effective race strategies. Coach Philip delves into some common pitfalls in nutrition strategy, emphasising the potential for significant performance improvements.

Why is a Warm-up Important?

We all know warm-ups are important, but when it comes to racing, we tend to do things differently than in training. Coach Philip explores why the warm-up is important.

How should you categorise your races through the season?

Athletes often categorise their races. In this article, Coach Philip outlines how athletes can use a category to help adjust their mindsets before the event.

Triathlon – Olympic or Standard Distance Training Plan

Format

Schedule

What Gadgets do I need?

Do I get any more assistance?

Read the latest content from Tri Training Harder Coaching

Sign up to receive the latest news and updates from Tri Training Harder

Believe. Strive. Achieve.