depending on your commitment (not initial levels of fitness) I highly recommend hiring a local trainer. Usually you can get on board for about $150.00 - 200.00 per month. I found a guy to help me with my general cycling and prep for 1/2 iron distance. My times were much better than my friends that were further along with their fitness than I was. Also we planned out my workouts a week in advance allowing family and work to take first place and modify the training with the days and times available. One of my requests was to continue using group rides as much as possible so he had me do certain interval training each week. Also each week he assessed my weakness and gave me a run or bike assignment as well. From him I have learned quite a bit and I will carry this knowledge with me as a I train for other tri's, bike races, running events, etc...