I searched through a number of training programmes on Training Peaks and was delighted I chose Coach Steve and Smart Endurance Solutions.
From a long time absence away from triathlon, I wanted something that would get me up to date without having to think too hard, and that would also adapt to my own development.
So far it has challenged me without being over-faced. The Facebook community and ability to email Coach Steve is a really nice extra for such a good value package.
I have worked with Steve from sprint races to 70.3 distance. Steve provides excellent planned out programmes and provides detailed feedback to ensure you are making progress and know your numbers for race day.
Great training plan for me, brought me to the top of my fitness in June 2021 after only 3 months of efficient training following my base training.
Since day one taking up triathlon in 2008 Stephen has been a massive reason why I’ve stuck with triathlon and enjoyed it to the extent that I have. He couldn’t do more to encourage and help those around him and is incredibly generous with both his time and knowledge. I’ve benefitted greatly from his technical knowledge and expertise, but it’s his absolute love of the sport and the passion that he brings to coaching that in my mind allows him to stand out as a coach. I can’t recommend him highly enough.
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.
Hello Coach Steve,
I am delighted to inform that I crossed the 70.3 Weymouth finish line in my personal best of 7 hrs 21 mins and 11 seconds.
I am really happy with the result, your training plan helped. All in all, a very satisfying result. And also a demonstration that I can push more and look to bring that time to sub 7.
Honestly I couldn’t recommend these plans enough this is my second plan and I’ve loved it again. Plus my emails are always answered within 10 minutes of sending !
Coach Steve’s 70.3 training plan not only got me to the finish line on my first 70.3 Ironman event, but managed to prepare me well enough to beat my expected 6 hours by 22 minutes!
Will most definately stick to SMart Endurance for my next event.
Steve's plan helped me successfully complete my first 70.3! The plan was manageable and I felt like I was able to move my workouts around as my scheduled allowed. I will be using the plan again to train for my next 70.3. Steve also provided helpful emails throughout the training plan.
Thank you very much for your plan. My experience was incredible, and I believe there is room for improvement in the upcoming half triathlons next year. Let’s keep in touch.
Second time I have used the plan [Intermediate 70.3 12 week plan] and I really like the workout descriptions and guidance
I owe you a big deal of gratitude. Dont know how you do it, but the way you planned your program made me, I feel, peak at the perfect time. Likewise, I am pleasantly surprised that your plan catered for hiccups that life throws at us.
Steve is a great coach and a great guy. I was coached for my first full distance race with him in Barcelona. A real coach that cares for his athletes. When I do another full distance race Steve will be my first port of call.
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