Scheduled training plan

Hi All! I am training for a 1/2 Ironman in October. I am following a training plan I found on one of the triathlon websites. I’m happy with the training plan, but, I have a question.

Let’s say for instance the prescribed training session calls for a 45 minute swim. Within this 45 mins, the workout consists of 300 meter w/u, 150 meter c/d, main set is 1500 meters. If I am able to complete this training session in 35 minutes, should I continue to swim until I have put in the full 45 mins? Or, should I stop at the prescribed distance, and move on to whatever else I have scheduled for the day, i.e., bike, run or strength training?

Thanks for your input.

For the swim in particular, I’d say distance is more important than time. You are going to have to swim 1.2 miles for a Half IM, regardless of how long it takes. That being said, if you are already at the pool in the water and feel OK - a little extra swimming is not a bad thing.