This is long. I'm really having a hard time figuring out how to structure my time & workouts for (1) this fall, and (2) over some training periods with an eye toward next summer...a yearly plan.

I have been looking at all the training plans on BT (including the articles on how to choose a plan), and they are very helpful. But, I seem to have more variables or activities I want to do, and I wonder if you all could give me some advice? I know this is long. Any help appreciated. I hope next year to hire a coach, but right now, it isn't in the budget.

Goals:

* Lose 30 pounds by January 19 (I've seen a nutritionist...I feel that I know what to do here)
* Main goal for next year is being FASTER on the bike over LONG endurance rides (up to 156 miles with a LOT of climbing)
* Secondary goal for next year is complete at least a sprint tri (maybe an Oly, too?) with as much walking as needed (for fun, to see if I like it, and for better all-around-athletic training), and lay the foundation for focusing on tri's for 2 years out (complete with focus on my limiter: running).

Weaknesses:

* Left knee: ITB issues & other chronic undiagnosed pains that come and go (for 20 years). Knee is great on the bike. Not great when I hike up and down hills too much. Regular walking seems OK.

Hours to Train:

* Between 6 and 10, depending on the week.

Where I'm starting:

* Have been training regularly since January, and 6 months of every year for about 3 years before that. Can do a climbing century. Have been doing a lot of ab/back work. Haven't swam for a few months, but it comes back fast for me. Haven't run for 20 years. Did hilly walking training last winter...but only up to 3 miles or so.

What I want to fit in:

* 2 x week fitness class that includes lots of abs and strength work
* swimming
* walking (maybe walk-to-run program after losing weight?)
* spin classes
* outdoor biking
* core: pilates?
* maybe focused strength training in the gym for leg strength?
* weekend group rides for speed?
* 2 x day workouts at least a few days, for the weight loss metabolism

Trying to figure out how on earth to do all that I want to do and still make sure I can focus on getting faster on the bike with intensity training, etc.

And, how do I put in the time to build up the walking/maybe-running and still focus on getting faster on the bike?