Yes — you can combine marathon training with preparation for a 70.3 triathlon. But it takes careful planning, smart load management, and sensible recovery to make sure you’re ready for both.
The Ideal Race Gap
Aim for 10-12 weeks between your marathon and the 70.3 race. That gives enough time to recover properly after the marathon and regain triathlon-specific fitness.
Treat the 70.3 as your A-race; use the marathon as a performance test — not as your peak event.
How to Build Training When Doing Both
Running Adjustments
Add a mid-week Zone 2 (easy/moderate intensity) run to build aerobic base without overtaxing your system.
Gradually increase long-run distance for marathon prep — but cap long runs at 2 hours 45 minutes.
Limit weekly increases in run volume to about 10%, and include recovery or lighter weeks to prevent overload.
Triathlon Training Balance
While focusing on running, expect to reduce some swim and bike volume. If time or fatigue becomes a problem, skip a lower-priority session rather than forcing it.
As the marathon nears, prioritize key run sessions and accept that triathlon-specific volume (especially long bike/swim) may need to be reduced temporarily.
After the Marathon — Recovery & Transition
Allow 1–2 full weeks for recovery, depending on how you feel post-race.
During recovery: shift to lighter activities — easy swims, easy bikes, easy runs rather than high-volume or high-intensity sessions.
Once recovered, gradually rebuild swim and bike volume while monitoring how your body responds to avoid overtraining.
What This Strategy Gives You — and What to Watch Out For
What Works Well
Marathon training can improve your running endurance and mental toughness, which helps the run leg of a 70.3.
If planned properly, the combination offers a broad endurance base and may improve resilience under fatigue.
What Requires Caution
High combined load of long runs + swim + bike + run can increase risk of overuse injury, fatigue or burnout.
Swimming and cycling fitness may dip if volume is reduced during the marathon-focused period — plan to rebuild these carefully.
Summary: Possible — With Smart Planning
You can include a marathon in your build-up toward a half distance triathlon — but only if you:
Leave 10-12 weeks between the two races
Accept that the 70.3 is your main goal and use the marathon as a stepping stone
Balance volume and intensity thoughtfully
Prioritise recovery after the marathon before resuming full tri training
If done well, this approach can build running strength and endurance without sacrificing your triathlon preparation.
Copyright MyProCoach™ Ltd © May 2018. All rights reserved
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