🔥 2026 SIX MONTH HALF DISTANCE SANTA CRUZ - BEGINNER W/RUN GAIT ANALYSIS - PAUL M. JOHNSON
🔥 2026 SIX MONTH HALF DISTANCE SANTA CRUZ - BEGINNER W/RUN GAIT ANALYSIS - PAUL M. JOHNSON
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
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Length
24 Weeks
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Plan Description
The Santa Cruz Half Distance Triathlon is a breathtaking yet challenging event that demands preparation tailored to its unique terrain and conditions. From the ocean swim around the iconic Wharf, to the hilly Highway 1 bike ride with over 2,500 ft of elevation gain, and the scenic but exposed coastal run—every section requires focused and strategic training. Our Six-Month Beginner Half Distance Triathlon Training Plan is built to get you there with confidence and strength.
This plan is designed for athletes like you—motivated, committed, and ready to conquer Santa Cruz. If you already have a 4–6 week aerobic base, this program will build the endurance, skill, and mental edge you need to perform on race day.
✅ Swim Preparedness for Open Water: With technique-focused sessions, interval training, and video-guided drills, you’ll improve efficiency and endurance for Santa Cruz’s 63°F ocean swim. Open-water swim simulations help you adapt to conditions around the Wharf and prepare for the Cowell’s Beach exit.
✅ Bike Strength for the Highway 1 Terrain: Expect structured hill workouts, endurance rides, and strength training to handle over 2,500 ft of climbing. By race day, you’ll be equipped for the long stretches and coastal winds along the Pacific.
✅ Run Endurance for the Coastal Out-and-Back: Long runs, tempo sessions, and race-specific pacing strategies will help you master the 13.1-mile course along the West Cliff path and through Natural Bridges. RPE- and Heart Rate-based guidance ensures smart pacing across every mile.
✅ Strength & Injury Prevention: Integrated strength training with form-focused video demos helps build durability and reduce injury risk across all three disciplines.
✅ Smart Progression: From aerobic base to VO2 intervals and tempo sets, the plan develops your fitness methodically—no guesswork, just results.
✅ Real Coach Support: You won’t train alone. Our personalized email coach support is available throughout your journey for questions, feedback, and motivation.
🎯 Ready to race Santa Cruz strong? Equip yourself with the plan designed to meet the demands of the Half Distance Triathlon—and elevate your performance from day one.
Start training smarter today—with expert guidance every step of the way.
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Training Plan Sample Week
Stats
Average Weekly Breakdown
| Workouts | Weekly Average | Longest Workout |
|---|---|---|
|
Bike
x3
|
02:54:00 | 02:30:00 |
|
Swim
x3
|
01:27:00 | 01:15:00 |
|
Run
x3
|
02:07:00 | 01:40:00 |
|
Strength
x1
|
00:57:00 | 00:55:00 |
| Workouts Per Week | Weekly Average | Longest Workout | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
02:54:00 | 02:30:00 | |
|
|
01:27:00 | 01:15:00 | |
|
|
02:07:00 | 01:40:00 | |
|
|
00:57:00 | 00:55:00 |
Training Load By Week
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- Heart Rate Monitor
- GPS
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