Bill Redfern: Training for a Half Ironman

Bill Redfern knows firsthand how grueling training for a half Ironman can be. Combining the physical activities of running, swimming and cycling, the Half Ironman is designed to test the endurance and mental fortitude of even the most gifted athlete. But by following a rigorous training schedule and setting attainable milestones, those with enough determination can finish what is widely considered one of the most difficult physical challenges in the world.

To prepare for a half Ironman, you must leave enough room in your daily schedule to train. Unfortunately, the average person works a full-time job and might find it difficult to dedicate several hours a day just to working out. Take Bill Redfern, for example. As the CEO of a thriving home-inspection franchise, Redfern realized that he would have to make some sacrifices. These included getting up earlier, training on weekends and finding creative ways to fit in a run or swim during the weekdays.

You should start training for a half Ironman at least five months in advance—more if you’ve never run a half-marathon or participated in a triathlon. Ideally, the first month should be spent training for each segment of the race. That way, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and tailor the rest of your training schedule around them. For instance, if you excel in swimming but can’t run a mile to save your life, it would make more sense to spend more time on the treadmill than in the pool.

Alternatively, if you find yourself well balanced, feel free to dedicate each subsequent month to one aspect of the race. For instance, month two can focus on swimming training, while months three and four can revolve around running and cycling, respectively. But even if you do decide to spend each month training for a different facet of the race, you should still devote at least one day each week to the others.

The fifth month is all about achieving your peak performance rates. It’s when all the hard work you put in during the first 120 days will really begin to pay off. Use this time to focus on speed, increasing your endurance and recognizing any lingering weaknesses. Be sure to take at least one week off from hard training before the race.

If this sounds too difficult, use Bill Redfern’s story as inspiration. At the age of 46, the successful entrepreneur decided to take time out of his busy schedule to train for a half Ironman. Starting his training early this year, Redfern spent the first few months preparing for a half marathon, which he successfully completed in April. The following month, he participated in his first International distance triathlon. Not only did he complete the race, but he managed to post an impressive time of two hours and eleven minutes (2:11), earning first place in his category. Bill Redfern will continue training throughout the summer months, using his momentum to propel him toward his ultimate goal of finishing a half Ironman this fall.

Completing a half Ironman is perhaps one of the most rewarding things anyone can do. And while it requires a great deal of work, Bill Redfern has proven that with the right motivation, even someone busy running an internationally renowned business can finish the race.

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