I’m 11 weeks into my 46 weeks Beginner Ironman plan. This is my first try at training for a triathlon. What I liked even before purchasing this plan is that I could write an email for coach Steve and get answers for all my concerns. At the time I was in ~4h marathon shape, had some past experience in cycling, and almost no experience in swimming, so we decided that a Beginner plan will suit me the best. At first, it felt that running volume is really low and I’m detraining in my strongest triathlon discipline but in few weeks when cycling volume ramped up those thoughts disappeared. Actually, having less running and more cycling keeps me away from running injuries and I’m faster now than I ever was. I’m probably not in marathon shape anymore but there are 35 weeks of the plan left with plenty of 20+km long runs. Another thing that I liked is tests for HR zones for cycling and running. Finally! Finally, I’m training in zones that i feel are right. In the past, I’ve recalculated my zones using different approaches at least 5 times and they always felt off. Now I feel that I’m really training in the zone that workout prescribes. Swimming. I can’t really talk about that because I’ve only swum for the first few weeks of the plan then due to quarantine all pools were closed, I’ve switched to strength and mobility workouts instead. Last thing. Coach Steve quickly answers all my questions, e.g. what to do when the pool closes, what is the best approach to brick workout, and so on. Overall I feel confident that following this plan I will be an Ironman finisher.

I am following the Advanced Ironman Program for my next race, and I am extremely happy with the results. The detailed training plan has helped me to not only improve my fitness, but also my confidence. Steve's timely answers to my few questions have been always very clear to understand. His advice has been key for me to develop my skills and enhance my knowledge. I feel fully prepared for my next Ironman and I would recommend this program to any advanced athlete.

Great trial really enjoying getting back to training and this programme is giving me massive motivation to get fully back into training

Breast /lung Cancer from 2018 to 2020 chemo/radation 5 surgeries, COVID 3weeks before cork,3 kids working full time ,on the bucket list half ironman, everyone thought I was nuts, Steve didn't he believed in me and made me believe in myself, while it didn't work out on the day and I missed cut off for bike , I got thick and did my own 21 k ,just didn't cross that line , Steve has given me my confidence back, I can't recommend him enough, cork 70.3 2023, 💪💪💪💪

Delighted with my recent half-marathon result considering the lead-in and the lack of speed sessions

I really enjoyed the structure and I’ve already bought one of your 20-week plans for the Dublin marathon so that starts mid-June

Second time I have used the plan [Intermediate 70.3 12 week plan] and I really like the workout descriptions and guidance

I have followed your training plan of Marathon most of the time. It has proven effective to enhance my endurance. Thanks for this!

Fair play to Steven .. by consistently slowing me down he managed to speed me up !

16 months into training for ultra events and IronMan ( rescheduled) and Steven has shown he can
mange the various aspects to allow me to increase training volume without ill effects ….
All we need now is a money back guarantee for non podium finish !

I can’t say enough about Coach Steve and his training plans!
I’m only 5 weeks in to my 32 week beginner Ironman training plan and
have already seen huge improvements in my fitness…especially my
running! At the start, 4 km seemed like a hurdle but now I’m easily
running 7-12 km 3+ times a week. It took me months to reach those kind
of distances when I was training for a half several years back.

On top of the great plans, Coach Steve has been incredibly accessible
and has helped to move around my workouts to work with my crazy
schedule and my fitness level…it’s been super helpful knowing that
there’s someone there to help and build a bit flexibility into the
program, rather than just skipping workouts all together.

I’m really just getting started and already have a ton of confidence
in my ability to make it across the finish line. I would highly
recommend SMart Endurance Solutions and Coach Steve

Previously coached by Steve in 2016 when undertaking Full IM training. 5 years, 3 kids and a few stone later I'm back working with Steve, training towards Ironman Cork 70.3 in August 2021. Steve has tailored my training excellently to allow for family and work commitments as well as dilligently managing my training load to reduce the risk of injury and allow consistent progress. As ever, Steve is personable, easy going and flexible, always putting the athlete first. Would highly recommend!

A huge thanks to Coach Steve for his 40 week IM program. The pace of progression was ideal. It really helped to minimise injury and took me to the best shape of my life. Steve's help and enthusiasm when I had questions made me feel like I was always supported. The result was that I felt like I was 'racing' rather than simply dragging myself to the finish. Many thanks Coach Steve. I'll be back for the next plan!

I’m really loving the plan and it’s been a help confidence wise in my training. Thanks again!