If you're going to go long—Ironman long—you're going to have to put in a lot of hours on the bike, in the pool and, of course, on the run. It goes without saying that without Iron fitness you're in for a very long and painful experience come race day.
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Here are some simple Ironman training tips to get you through those long rides, runs and swimming sessions.
Join a Masters Swim Group
You could just find a neighborhood pool and swim on your own. But it can get tedious.
As seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong described his swim training in a pool: "Once you've swam 50 meters...you've seen and done the entire course."
In other words, chasing the black line at the bottom of the pool can become monotonous. That's why joining a masters group makes swimming so much more interesting.
More: How to Excel at the Ironman Swim
Not only will you learn how to become a better swimmer when training with a coach and other experienced masters swimmers, but you'll also have a structured workout—and a few friends to chat with in the hot tub once you're done with the long workout.
Find Your Own Small Group of Cycling Buddies
Just like having companions for the pool, there's nothing like having a few friends with you on a long bike ride. Let's say you're about to embark on a classic century ride in preparation for your next Ironman.
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