The Level 8-10 training plans are designed for those who are looking to achieve a lifetime peak performance at the half-Ironman distance. If you are almost willing and able to train as hard as any triathlete, but not quite, choose this Level 9 training plan. The plan is 20 weeks long and comprise an 8-week base phase, a 6-week build phase, and a 6-week peak phase. It includes two optional tune-up races: a sprint at the end of Week 12 and an Olympic distance race at the end of Week 16. Every fourth week is a recovery week and the last 10 days constitute a tapering period. You will train 4 times per week in each discipline. This includes a weekly bike-run brick workout. The brick falls on Thursday in odd-numbered weeks and on Saturday in even-numbered weeks. The Level 9 plan begins with 8,050 yards of swimming, 5 hours and 45 minutes of cycling, and 2 hours and 46 minutes of running in Week 1. It peaks with 12,250 yards of swimming, 9 hours and 30 minutes of cycling, and 4 hours and 48 minutes of running in Week 17.