How soon till another ironman?

Triathlon Forum
1

I just completed my first Ironman, IMCDA. How long (typically) would the recovery period be until another? I’d like to do Vineman in mid-August. My CDA finish was 12:10, and I was not overly taxed (fairly good base training). I recovered fine within two days, but I don’t know if I’m being foolish thinking I can do another race thatt soon. Plus I just turned fifty last week. Thoughts?

2

I’d recommend giving it 6-9 months before another one. Full recovery from an IM takes much longer than a few days. Ask yourself, what’s the rush?

3

I’d recommend giving it 6-9 months before another one. Full recovery from an IM takes much longer than a few days. Ask yourself, what’s the rush?
I agree, but I guess it depends on your goals. If you are simply out to finish and don’t care about getting an optimum performance out yourself, then you could go sooner. Believe me, you are not recovered in 2 days. You may feel better, your muscles may not be sore, but there is fatigue, and your connective tissues are far from ready to go. If you don’t recover properly, you risk injury and poor performance.

4

Also just did Coeur d’Alene last week. I’m thinking about doing a Half IM in late September. Would that also be too much too soon, or is that a little more approachable for 3 months post Ironman?

5

I think that’s more approachable. Something like 3-4 weeks off into easy, 3-4 base, 3 build, 2 peak/taper.

6

Thanks Marty. Experience obviously counts.

7

Cool, that’s kind of what I had in mind. Thanks for the tip Marty.

8

I did IMCDA and I’m doing the Aquabike at Vineman. Personally I would do another full IM so soon, but take away the run and it seems much more doable.

Gary MC