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Ironman / 70.3
Rating
Ironman is the most well-known full-distance triathlon: 3.86 km of swimming, 180 km of cycling, and 42.195 km of running (a marathon) back to back. Ironman 70.3 (the 'half') is exactly half the length of each stage.
In detail
The name 'Ironman' is a registered brand of a specific race series by the World Triathlon Corporation, but in everyday speech it's often used to refer to any full-distance triathlon of similar length. Preparation usually takes at least six months and requires combining training in three different sports at once.
How to use it
Before registering for a full Ironman, most coaches advise first successfully finishing a 70.3 — this gives a realistic understanding of the training volume and nutrition requirements for a long race.