Allan Pitman was a legendary Australian Ironman coach (as well as a competitor). This session helps build your sustained aerobic pace and is great for long distance open-water swimmers and Ironman triathletes.
Each Saturday I will post a Swim Session, and most weeks I will load three options up for you to do. Option A is for swimmers who are after a workout between 1,000 & 2,000 metres. Option B is for swimmers who are after a workout between 2,000 & 3,000m and Option C will be greater than 3,000m.
Read this article here for an explanation of Swim Intensity.
The inspiration for these workouts comes from an article on Train Smooth, you can read it here.

Option A
- 400 WU;
- 4x 300;
- 100 Band;
- 200 CD (1,900)

Option B
- 400 WU;
- 6x 300;
- 100 Band;
- 400 CD (2,700)

Option C
- 500 WU;
- 8x 300;
- 100 Band;
- 400 CD (3,400)
For the Warm Up (WU) start with 400m (Options A & B) or 500m (Option C). During the warm-up feel free to stop and stretch as needed. It doesn’t need to be a continuous swim.
The main set is made up of four (Option A), six (Option B) or eight (Option C) reps of 300m. With each length of the 300m swim your first 30 strokes (15 strokes for a 25m pool) at race pace.
The final set is a single rep of 100m swum with a swim band.
For the Cool Down (CD) swim 200m. Unlike the previous sets which have to be freestyle, the Cool Down (CD) (like the Warm Up (WU)) can be any stroke you wish to swim. You can also stop and rest after any length. I encourage you to stop and stretch during the Cool Down (CD).
If you would like further advice feel free to contact me.
I am the Head Coach & Director of Qwik Kiwi Coaching.
I specialise in assisting first-timers and recreational athletes to achieve their sporting goals. I can be contacted at coachray@coachray.nz and 021 348 729.
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Download the Garmin (.FIT) files for this workout for FREE
12 weeks to an Iron-Distance swim PB 25/50m
As you triumphantly emerge from the waters of your Ironman Swim, the exhilaration of surpassing your previous records will propel you across the finish line. 🏊♂️💨
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Formulated by Ray Boardman, an esteemed figure in the triathlon realm with qualifications including PGDipSportsMed, PGDipRehab, PGCertSc (Exercise Science), BSc (Anatomy), and DipSportsStudies, this plan reflects his unwavering dedication to the sport, drawing from his extensive experience completing numerous Half and Full Distance Ironman event, and guiding countless triathletes to success. 🏅👨🏫
Embark on this 24-week journey, commencing well in advance of your upcoming Ironman, as the program systematically propels you towards your peak. Each week, you’ll engage in a regimen consisting of three swim sessions, progressively building your capacity to conquer distances up to 4,000 meters within a single session. While optional, I recommend utilizing a smart watch to meticulously track your pool sessions. 📈👀
Before commencing this plan, ensure you possess the ability to swim continuously for 1,500 meters or yards, with a total workout distance of 3,000 meters or yards. 🏊♂️🔄
With the purchase of this plan, gain exclusive access to bi-weekly coaching calls, where you can glean insights and seek guidance on all matters related to training and racing. ☎️📚
Established in 2015, this program has stood the test of time, assisting countless individuals in achieving their Ironman Swim PBs. Additionally, it’s adaptable for those participating in Open Water or Ocean Swim events spanning 3 to 4 kilometres (approximately 2 to 2.4 miles). 🌊👟
Structured and progressive, this program evolves in tandem with your journey to the Ironman, ensuring you reach the pinnacle of your performance on race day. 🚀🏁

