I have become increasingly interested in doing some IM race simulation sessions or long bricks. I see a lot of people doing a long bike followed by a 30/45 min run, in order to practice their race pace and nutrition. Not many people seem to do a long swim as part of these sessions. I am thinking that if I’m going to practice my race nutrition then I am better to start the long brick after doing a long swim to mimick the calorie deficiency. I figure starting my long brick 2 hours after a big breakfast may be different to having a large breakfast followed by a 4km swim. Heck whilst I’m at it I might as well get up at 3am and try to follow my exact race day strategy as if I’m actually racing and then pull up 30 mins into the run.
My question: Would I get much more feedback from doing the race simulation including the swim rather than just a long brick? I don’t really want to get up at 3am unless I need to!
Thanks,
Will