Your first 70.3 – finished strong, not just survived.
HI, I'M PHILIPP KOUTNY
I've raced against the very best in the world. I finished 8th at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona (2019), won IRONMAN Tallinn in 8:01:18 (2018) and took 2nd at IRONMAN Malaysia. I was named Swiss Triathlete of the Year 2019 and raced for the Swiss National Team. But I started exactly where you are now, as an age-grouper, and went on to win the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in my age group (2015). Today I coach age-group triathletes with structured, realistic training that fits real life. With this plan I'm putting that experience into your hands.
THE PLAN
12 weeks from a solid fitness base to the Half Ironman start line on 7–9 hours a week. Every week follows the same simple rhythm – one rest day, two swims, three rides and two to three runs – so training becomes a habit, not a puzzle.
WHO IT'S FOR
- First-time 70.3 athletes, or anyone who wants a calm, structured build
- You can already swim 1,000 m continuously, ride 1.5 hours and run 45–60 minutes
- You have 7–9 hours per week, with longer sessions on the weekend
WHAT YOU GET
- 12 weeks: Base (1–5), Build (6–8), Race-Specific (9–10), Taper & Race (11–12)
- Benchmark tests in Week 1 and a retest in Week 5, so your zones fit you
- Structured bike and run workouts that sync to Garmin, Wahoo, Zwift and more
- Clear swim sets in metres with technique cues and athlete notes
- Progressive bricks, a full race rehearsal in Week 9 and a two-week taper
- A recovery week, fueling practice and strength & mobility for injury prevention
- A note from me every Monday explaining the focus of the week
EQUIPMENT
Heart-rate monitor (required), bike with indoor trainer or safe outdoor routes, a power meter or smart trainer (recommended, not required), pool access (open water optional) and a GPS watch.
COMMUNICATION
This is a self-guided plan with no personal coaching. Everything you need is written into each workout – just pick your race date when you apply the plan and it lines up so you finish on race day.
I can't wait to see you cross that finish line. Let's go!