Complete An Ironman
Still to do
A 3.8 km swim, 180 km ride and full marathon in one day, ending with four words every triathlete dreams of hearing.
The adventure
An Ironman begins at dawn with a 3.8-kilometre swim, thousands of arms churning the water. By the time you are on the bike the day has barely started: 180 kilometres of steady effort, eating and drinking on schedule, knowing that every kilometre you push too hard will be paid back on the run.
Then comes the marathon. For most age-groupers it is a long, private battle, walking the aid stations and shuffling between them through the afternoon heat and into the evening. But the finish line makes up for all of it. Spectators stay until the midnight cut-off, the music gets louder as darkness falls, and as you run down the carpet the announcer calls your name with the words every triathlete wants to hear: you are an Ironman.
Why it’s epic
- The full distance totals 140.6 miles, or about 226 kilometres.
- The first Ironman was held in Hawaii in 1978, with 15 starters and 12 finishers.
- Athletes have 17 hours to finish, with separate cut-offs for the swim and the bike.
- The World Championship on Hawaii's Big Island is famous for its lava fields, crosswinds and heat.
What it is
A full Ironman is a 3.8-kilometre swim, 180-kilometre bike ride and full marathon.
How to do it
Train for at least six to nine months, building up all three disciplines.
Top tip
Nutrition planning makes or breaks an Ironman.
Need to know
- Allow nine to twelve months of training after a half-distance race, with long sessions every weekend.
- Practise your nutrition, as you'll need to eat and drink steadily for 12 hours or more.
- Popular races sell out up to a year ahead.
Make it happen
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Why it’s on my list
The ultimate multi fitness goal. I am totally in awe of anyone completing this gruelling event, I want to be that person that people look up to and say Wow that is an epic achievement.
Triathlons combine swimming, cycling and running into one of the most popular all-round physical challenges. The Ironman is the pinnacle of the triathlon sport. it involves
Ironman: 3.86km (2.4 mile) swim; 180.25km (112 mile) bike; 42.2km (26.2 mile) run.
Check out The Official Ironman Website to find your nearest Ironman Event.
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