The Olympic triathlon distance, also known as the standard triathlon distance, is the multi-discipline distance athletes tackle at the Olympic Games. Hence the name. Those taking part in the Olympic triathlon will swim 1.5km, bike 40km and run a final 10km. Exactly double the Sprint triathlon distance.
If you’re new to endurance sport and particularly triathlons then we’d recommend starting with the Super Sprint or Sprint distance. However, if you’re set on starting with the Olympic triathlon, it is possible. Just expect to put in considerable training time and take race day fueling seriously. Most importantly you’ll need an Olympic distance triathlon training plan that you can trust.
An Olympic distance triathlon is a serious endurance sport. You’ll be swimming, cycling and running for up to three hours, which puts serious strain on your body. Because of this you’ll need to improve both your strength and fitness, while also developing the specialist skills that each discipline requires.
12 Week Beginner Olympic Triathlon Training Plan
A 12-week beginner olympic triathlon training plan that is perfect for beginner triathletes who are:
- New to triathlon and looking to complete your first triathlon
- 4 to 6 hours training per week
- Able to swim 400m nonstop, Bike 90 mins, Run 60 minutes
Also suitable for people looking at a 16 week plans, as you can repeat the last 4 weeks.
Olympic triathlon training plans aren’t hard to come by, but one developed by the two most decorated triathletes in the world? There’s only one place to get your hands on that and why we’re partnered with Brownlee Fitness.
Training Plan Overview
This is an 12-week programme incorporating some of the Brownlee Brothers favourite sessions and you’ll get an insight into the structure that made them so successful. The first 4-weeks are available below. To access the remaining 8 weeks and additional advice, all in a handy format sign up for the FREE plan via the link below.

BC – Back Crawl / CD – Cool Down / FC – Front Crawl / MS – Main Set / R – Recovery / WU – Warm Up
Brownlee Fitness strongly recommends that you consult with your physician and other medical professionals before beginning any training plan.
> Last 15min strong (threshold)