Embarking on the journey of preparing for an IRONMAN race is a daunting task, requiring dedication, discipline, and strategic planning. Many athletes choose to coach themselves, believing in their ability to navigate the complexities of training. However, the effectiveness of a structured online training plan crafted by a coach should not be underestimated.

For over a decade now, here at Foot Traffic Coaching, thanks to the Training Tilt Training Plan Platform, we have been able to create Structured Online Training Plans for Self Coached athletes. I must admit, initially I was reluctant to have Online Training Plans available for people to access through a subscription membership, as I felt it took away the Coaching of the athlete. But I was proven wrong after a couple of years of seeing the Training Lab membership athletes follow these Online Plans to great success at many different events (IRONMAN, IRONMAN 70.3, Xterra, Marathons, Half Marathons etc). The athletes followed a plan that I had carefully written, and from that I was interacting directly with the athlete on a regular basis to help them tweak and meld their own training around the plan. I have seen many First time finishes, PB’s, IRONMAN World Champs qualifications and Age Group Podiums come from this method of Coaching.

In this article, I delve into the benefits and effectiveness of following a structured online training plan for the self-coached, in particular IRONMAN athletes, where the margins of error are much tighter.

Personalization

Personalization extends beyond workouts; it includes access to information and resources including nutrition guidance, recovery strategies, and mental preparation, addressing all aspects crucial for success. We even have the ability for an athlete to book a Coach Time Consultation with one of our Coaches to discuss ways to personalise the plan further according to their individual capabilities, goals, and schedules. 

Within the Training Tilt platform the Training Plans are written into, It’s easy to pick and drag workouts around the calendar to fit into a schedule that suits each athlete.

Expertise and Experience

The Training Plans are written by me, an IRONMAN Certified Coach, so with that I bring a high level of expertise and experience. My years of racing and Coaching athletes at many different events and distances, up to multiple IRONMAN races (including at the World Championships in Kona) means the Training Plans are written with those years of experience. 

The plans respect the intricacies of training, pacing, and race-day strategies. We have designed training plans that optimize performance while minimizing the risk of injury and burnout.

Accountability and Motivation

Following a structured plan will instill a strong sense of accountability. You are more likely to adhere to your training schedules when you know the training calendar will look incomplete. We have some great analysis tools that allow you to track work planned vs work completed.

Within the Training Lab membership you get access to Online Social and Event Groups where you can communicate and share with other athletes training for the same events as you. This connection to other athletes, even just being virtual, means that you feel the sense of team in a pure individual sport. This is one thing that I feel gives so much benefit to people following our Online Coaching Plans. 

Injury Prevention

Overtraining and improper technique can lead to injuries, derailing an athlete's progress. The way the Training Plans are constructed tends to err on the side of caution. My years as a Sports Podiatrist prior to being a Triathlon Coach has given me the understanding of how injuries come on and how to avoid them from occurring. One thing I have seen with people Self Coaching is they tend to over plan, and will complete a lot more work in their training week than is necessary, or indeed safe.

You will find guidance on recovery protocols and incorporating rest days into the training plan. This ensures the athlete stays healthy and resilient throughout their training journey. Taking a step back and trusting the plan that’s being followed is a major step to avoiding injury, and seeing more of the Training Plan completed in time for the key event.

Long-term Development

We don’t want you finishing at just one race, we want to see years and years of enjoyment in sport. Beyond a single race, the Training Plans focus on long-term athlete development. You will cultivate habits and skills that contribute to sustained success in triathlon and other endurance endeavors.

Through periodic assessments and goal-setting sessions, the Coaching team can ensure that even our Training Lab Membership athletes progress steadily towards their objectives, fostering a mindset of continuous improvement.

Athlete Testimonials

The benefits for me following an online training plan are immense! I like having accountability by ticking off each training session as I've done it and seeing the sessions turn green. I don't doubt myself weather Im doing enough or not enough training. The goal is easy to reach as you take one day at a time and tick each workout off - the thinking is all done for you. I like the feeling that I'm not alone. All of my training is done by myself because of family commitments so I feel good knowing other people are doing exactly the same workout as me and we are all in the same boat. Also, if Ive ever needed questions answered or extra support its easy to reach out to you guys and you are always there.

I tried to self coach myself for a short time before my first Ironman and it was extremely stressful and frustrating to seemingly not see any results or progress but I then got onto a structured training plan and everything started to fall into place. My body got stronger and the ability to effectively recover between sessions became easier. I don’t think my journey would be were it is without the online plans and support. And also I just enjoy myself a lot more.

While self-coached IRONMAN athletes demonstrate admirable independence and determination, the benefits of following a structured online training plan crafted by a coach are undeniable. From personalized guidance to expert support, coaches play a pivotal role in maximizing athletic potential and navigating the complexities of Endurance Sport training. By embracing the power of structured online training plans, self-coached athletes can elevate their performance and achieve their goals with confidence and efficiency. So if you are a bit like I was prior to seeing the positive benefits of a Structured Online Training Plan consider signing up to the Foot Traffic Training Lab and see if it's the thing that's missing in your own training.