SCORING
- A = 3 points
- B = 2 points
- C = 1 point
Total your points together to see if you're cut out for an Ironman!
15 to 18: Ready for Ironman
Whether you've been building up to the distance or have supported your friends through their training, you're already immersed in the Ironman world. So why not take the plunge yourself? If you haven't done a 70.3 yet, get one under your belt before you really go the distance, suggests Scott Willett, head coach and founder of TriLife, a New York-based multisport team.
"It's not a requirement, but you are certainly more likely to achieve your goals if you know that you enjoy being out there for hours," he says. Also, you'll want to discuss your training plans with your family members, so they're prepared for the long hours of training, the travel, and the general lifestyle adjustment. "You need a support crew that's fully behind you and accepts that you are going to be spending a great amount of time on this endeavor," says Willett. Once everyone's on board, it's time to ready, set, register.
11 to 14: Not Quite Committed
No doubt, your desire to do an Ironman is there. But the time? Not so much. "We always tell any potential team members that it takes 10 months to prepare," says Willett. "You can train on minimal time, but the chances of getting injured are much greater."
Besides that, peak training may entail 20 hours of workouts per week, which may mean you'll have to sacrifice other life events—like dinners with friends or your son's soccer game—to train. Money is another prohibitive factor: With race fees, new gear, cost of travel and hotel stays, you can rack up some major charges from one race alone. So if you're just not willing to make that kind of commitment—financially or otherwise—you may be better off making the Ironman a long-term goal.
"You can focus on 70.3s and Olympic races and put the Ironman on your two-year plan," says Willett. "Choosing shorter races doesn't make you any less of a triathlete."
More: 10 Pro Athletes Who Have Done an Ironman
6 to 10: Better Off Building Up
Sure, you're in love with the idea of adding "Ironman triathlete" to your list of accomplishments. But there's just one thing: You've never raced anywhere close to that kind of distance. "Seeing the event on TV is one thing, but actually being in the race takes the romance out of it," says Willett.
For a dose of reality, head to a local long-distance event and spend the day volunteering at the finish line. "You'll get a good idea of just how hard it is," says Willett. Still psyched after that? Start off small by tackling shorter events so you can learn the ins and outs of the sport. Whether it's finding your perfect pace, getting comfortable changing flat tires, or figuring out which sports drink sits best with your stomach, you'll be able to pick up insight that will prove invaluable once you do go for the Ironman.
More: Do Your First Ironman
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