What Is a Half Ironman?

A Half Ironman, also known as an Ironman 70.3, is a long-distance triathlon race organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC). The “70.3” refers to the total distance in miles (113.0 km) covered in the race, which consists of:

1. 1.2-mile (1.9 km) swim
2. 56-mile (90 km) bike ride
3. 13.1-mile (21.1 km) run

The distance of a 70.3 is exactly half of an Ironman Triathlon. As a result, the race is one of the key stepping stones towards a full Ironman. The Ironman is widely considered to be one of the hardest one-day sporting events in the world.

It might be a stepping stone, but it’s no walk in the park. You can’t fake this level of training. To finish a 70.3 requires dedicated training and preparation.

Not sure where to start? Check out our tips to crush your first 70.3!

FAQ

How Long is a Half Ironman?

A Half Ironman is 70.3 miles, or 113 kilometers. It consists of a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride, and a 13.1 mile run (half marathon).

How long does a Half Ironman take?

The average time to complete a Half Ironman is 6 hours. For men, the average time is 5 hours and 51 minutes. For women, it’s 6 hours and 18 minutes.

What is the average half ironman time by age group?

What is the time limit for a Half Ironman?

The half ironman time limit will be depend on a few factors. Cutoffs vary by race, but are typically 8 hours and 30 minutes after the last start wave.

What’s Up With the Tattoos?

The Half Ironman tattoo features the Ironman logo, which is known as the “M-Dot”. The “M-Dot” logo is a simple design, with a large “M” followed by a dot. The “M” stands for “Ironman” while the dot represents the “point” in “Ironman”.

Getting this tattoo is often seen as a badge of honor among triathletes. It’s a way of commemorating the hard work, dedication, and determination required to finish the suffering. It’s a permanent reminder of the athlete’s accomplishment and a testament to their strength and endurance.