Simon Ward, Be Battle Ready - The podcast for strength, resilience, and longevity

Most athletes only think about heat training two weeks before flying to Kona. That’s reactive. Used early in the season, heat training can increase plasma volume, improve heart rate control and build durability before racing even starts. This episode was recorded last year and I’m re-releasing it now because this is exactly when smart athletes should be using it. I’m joined by Lindsey Hunt from Precision Fuel & Hydration to break down how it works and how to apply it safely. In This Episode • Why heart rate spikes in hot conditions • How plasma volume rises in just a few days • The difference between acclimation and acclimatisation • Whether it helps if you race in the UK • Lab vs DIY approaches • How long adaptations last KEY QUOTE “Often our ability to lose heat limits performance more than our actual fitness.” To follow Lindsey or Precision Fuel and hydration please check out the following social media channels Twitter (personal) - LindseyHunt_24 Instagram (PF&H) - Precision Fuel & Hydration Instagram (personal) - Lindseyh.u.n.t. Lab page - https://www.precisionhydration.com/lab/ Precision Fuel & Hydration Stuff A recent interesting blog about wearable sweat sensors A recent blog about how fuelling requirements change at altitude Free online sweat test: https://sweattest.precisionhydration.com/pages/why-personalise-your-hydration-strategy Quick carb calculator: https://www.precisionhydration.com/products/precision-fuel-sample-pack/#thecarbcalculator Athlete Case Studies: https://www.precisionhydration.com/athletes/case-studies/triathlon/ Cool Videos Pro Tour cycle team Lotto Destiny use heat training to optimise performance Heat acclimation and hydration at Marathon des Sables If you want help applying strategies like this properly, that’s exactly what we build inside the SWAT Inner Circle. Train smart. Start early. Get ahead of the season. £30 per month. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

After three decades in endurance sport, what surprises me most isn’t what’s changed. It’s what hasn’t. Training trends come and go. Methods get rebranded. New tools promise breakthroughs. But the fundamentals that drive performance, health and longevity have barely moved. In this episode, I explain why most athletes don’t need more information — they need more consistent application of what already works. In This Episode Key Takeaways Quote From This Episode “You probably don’t need more information. You need more consistency.” Join the SWAT Inner Circle If you want year-round structure built around these enduring principles — strength, fuelling, recovery and smart intensity — join the SWAT Inner Circle. Plans, guidance, monthly coaching calls and direct access to me. £30 per month. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Beth takes over hosting duties from Santa Barbara and pulls out a list of training and racing principles I wrote about 15 years ago. The catch is I’m not allowed to look at them. So we go through the big ones and I react in real time, seeing which ideas have genuinely stood the test of time, what I’d tweak with today’s experience, and what still matters most for age group athletes who want to perform well, stay healthy, and enjoy the process. We talk about choosing races that suit you (not your ego), understanding the course early, and setting realistic expectations so you don’t torch yourself chasing a fantasy. We dig into the boring stuff that works: consistency over hero sessions, sensible progression, and training specifically for the event you’ve entered. And we cover race day reality: the perfect race almost never happens, so you’d better have a Plan B and a calm head. 4–5 key bullet points 3 key takeaways Quote of the episode “Consistency is the key to success. Make the priority to stay healthy and uninjured.” Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

This episode is not about marginal gains. It’s about the thing we all quietly assume, until we cannot: being fit does not make you bulletproof. Nick shares what happened when he suffered a heart attack and cardiac arrest during the GB National Open Water Championships (July 2023), mid-race, in open water. He was resuscitated on site, later underwent a double bypass, and then began the long, patient process of rebuilding his health, fitness, and confidence. It’s an honest conversation about preparation, prevention, and the responsibility we all carry, not just for our own health, but for the people training around us. What you’ll learn in this episode Battle Ready takeaways (5 punchy ones) One key quote “Being fit doesn’t make you immune.” Practical actions to take after listening Some links from Nick: Book recommendation- “Motivation is P.E.A.R. shaped” by author and psychologist Simon Hartley. http://www.yorkshireairambulance.org.uk http://www.suddencardiacarrestuk.org Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle J 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Welcome back. Part one was the foundations. This is the practical, straight-talking follow on where we get honest about what actually moves the needle over 50. We cover six actions that help you keep performance climbing while protecting recovery: less volume but better quality, HIIT done sensibly, reducing alcohol, daily creatine, the broken endurance run-walk approach, and regular health checks. The big themes (what this episode is really saying) Over 50, you do not need to train like a hero. You need to train with intent, recover properly, and stop letting the “small” lifestyle habits quietly sabotage the work. Punchy takeaways One key quote “Hoping things are fine is not the same as knowing.” Practical “pick one lever” challenge Do not try to do all of this at once. Pick one lever this week: SWAT Inner Circle If you want help applying all of this with proper structure, support, and a plan you can trust, the SWAT Inner Circle is the simplest way to stay consistent and stay Battle Ready. Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

This week is part one of a two-parter where Beth and I strip things right back to the foundations that keep you training well, feeling good, and staying properly capable as the years tick on. No gimmicks, no hero sessions, and definitely no “smash yourself then need a week off” nonsense. We cover five core actions that make everything else work: regular strength training that you can actually stick to, doing something that challenges your brain (not just your body), sorting your sleep so recovery is no longer optional, eating enough protein to support muscle and healthspan, and building stability and balance so you move well now and stay upright later. Simple stuff, but it is the simple stuff that most people skip. Part two will take it on from there with less volume, more smart intensity, alcohol, creatine, broken endurance running, and health checks. 5 key takeaways One key sentence from the episode: Strength Training - “You do not need to be sore for it to be working”. Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Welcome back, this is part two of our protein mini-series with Dr Jules Strauss. Part two is the no-nonsense version. Less theory, more ‘do this’. Jules and I turn protein into a simple daily system for busy endurance athletes: how to spread it across the day, why breakfast and lunch are where most people miss easy gains, when shakes are actually useful, and what the truth is about that post-session ‘window What we cover Five practical takeaways Quote to steal “Think about building your meal out from the protein source rather than the carbohydrate source.” J Listener action Connect with Dr. Jules Strauss: totalendurancenutrition.com@drjulesstrauss_nutritionist Resources recommended by Jules Beyond muscle hypertrophy. Why dietary protein is important for endurance athletes Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Protein is having a moment, but the internet has turned it into a shouting match. In part one, I’m joined by performance nutritionist Dr Jules Strauss to cut through the noise and give you a clear framework. We start with the standard “recommended daily allowance” and quickly get into what actually matters for endurance athletes and masters athletes: muscle maintenance, recovery, quality of life, and staying strong enough to keep doing the stuff you love for decades. What we cover Why 0.8-1.0 g per kg is a general population target, not an “optimal for performance” target. Key takeaways Key quote regarding the RDA numbers “Those numbers are about survival rather than thriving or optimal performance.” Listener action Connect with Dr. Jules Strauss: totalendurancenutrition.com@drjulesstrauss_nutritionist Resources recommended by Jules Beyond muscle hypertrophy. Why dietary protein is important for endurance athletes Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward Including links for - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Beth and Simon wrap up 2025 with an honest look at what worked, what didn’t, and what they’re taking into 2026. Beth reflects on Ironman Austria, the post race dip, and how winter darkness can drain motivation (and how a certain guide dog has helped). Simon shares how the Battle Ready philosophy shaped his year, proving you can tackle big adventures without living in massive training volumes. In this episode Podcasts Beth - Post Ironman Austria reflectionsSimon - Post Centurion and Bosphorous swim reflectionsOutlaw Middle Takeaway Consistency beats heroics. Stay Battle Ready with sustainable training, solid habits, and a life that still has room for adventures. See you next week (or next year). Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: You can find link for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

A proper Grumpy Old Coaches Christmas Special with Simon Ward joined by Steve Lumley and Marc Laithwaite, plus Bethany Ward back in the hot seat(and, as ever, dropping a couple of absolute show-stoppers). We kick off with the state of triathlon participation and what Marc is seeing on the ground as an organiser, including the way athletes are now leaving entries later and how that makes it harder to predict numbers. From there we zoom out and compare triathlon to what’s booming elsewhere, especially road running, open water swimming and cycling. Next up, we dig into why running is flying right now, particularly half marathons and marathons. We talk simplicity, cost, time commitment, and why formats like Parkrun, plus the rise of newer fitness events, are pulling people in. We also go properly into the youth pathway problem. Marc shares the TryKidz work in primary schools and why the missing piece is not enthusiasm or delivery, it’s the “what next?” step after the taster day. Then we take on Ironman age group qualification. The principle seems fair, but the real-world experience can be confusing, with Beth mentioning a calculator tool a friend built to help make sense of it. And because it’s Christmas, we finish with a proper 2025 debrief and 2026 goal setting session. Steve’s return to long-distance racing at 60, Beth’s Ironman Austria recap (including the WhatsApp group drama and a very honest observation about what people pay attention to), plus Simon’s Bosphorus swim from Asia to Europe and why destination events just hit different. Then it’s onto 2026 with Hyrox, ultras, swims, 70.3 plans, gravel adventures, and Beth trying to bundle unfinished 2025 business into one slightly chaotic solution involving a horse. Key takeaways Some memorable quotes Listener action steps Have a brilliant Christmas, enjoy the food and the downtime, and don’t try to “win Christmas” by smashing training when your body is begging for a breather. The Grumpy Old Coaches will be back next year, and the mission rolls on: 500 episodes first… then a million downloads. Steve Lumley is back in the market for athletes. You can contact Steve via his email, TriCoach.Lum@gmail.com Marc Laithwaite runs The Endurance Store, an independent running and triathlon store in West Lancashire, and Croston Cycles, just down the road from The Endurance Store! Epic Events organise swim, cycle, run, and triathlon events throughout the North West. Www.theendurancestore.com https://www.crostoncycles.com/ Www.epicevents.co.uk Marc also talked about his charity: TryKidz (triathlon introduction days in primary schools, NW England) Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: You can find link for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In part two of my conversation with Harvey Fortis – nutritionist, researcher, and performance specialist working with INEOS Cycling – we move from theory into practical action. Harvey and I dig into the specific foods, habits, and daily choices that nourish the microbiome and help it thrive. We talk about fibre, fermented foods, stress, sleep, pre- and probiotics, the Mediterranean diet, and how simple, consistent choices can transform gut health for athletes and everyday individuals alike. Key Topics Key Quote ( 01:27:58 ) “Every meal needs to feed you – and your microbes. When you look after your gut, you’re really looking after your whole body.” – Harvey Fortis Key Message Gut health isn’t about cutting things out – it’s about adding the right things in. Feed your microbes with colour, fibre, and variety, and you’ll build the foundation for lasting health and performance. How to Connect with Harvey: Instagram – @fortis.sportsci Website – www.totalendurancenutrition.com Recommended resources for listeners: A couple mod highly recommended books Gut by Giulia Enders The Athlete’s Gut: The Inside Science of Digestion, Nutrition, and Stomach Distress – Patrick Wilson 2 interesting research documents The Athlete Gut Microbiome and its Relevance to Health and Performance: A Review GSSI Sports Science Exchange: Gut Microbiome Function, Stability, and Profiling and Relevance to Athletes Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, Podcast, Instagram, YouTube Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In this first of two conversations, I sit down with Harvey Fortis, a performance nutritionist and researcher completing his PhD at Liverpool John Moores University, where he studies gut and metabolic responses in endurance athletes. Harvey also works with INEOS Cycling and Total Endurance Nutrition, so he sees the impact of gut health on performance every single day. Together, we lay the foundations for understanding the microbiome – the trillions of microbes that live inside us and influence our digestion, immunity, mood, sleep, and long-term health. We explore how the microbiome develops, how modern life affects it, and why a healthy gut is essential not just for athletes, but for anyone who wants to feel and function at their best. Key Topics Key Quote ( 00:09:59 ) “We host around 30 to 40 trillion bacterial cells – roughly as many as your own human cells – and they all work together like a thriving city inside you.” – Harvey Fortis Key Message Your gut is more than a digestive system – it’s a living ecosystem that drives energy, recovery, mood, and resilience. When the good bacteria thrive, everything else follows. How to Connect with Harvey:Instagram – @fortis.sportsci Website – www.totalendurancenutrition.com Recommended resources for listeners: A couple mod highly recommended books Gut by Giulia Enders The Athlete’s Gut: The Inside Science of Digestion, Nutrition, and Stomach Distress – Patrick Wilson 2 interesting research documents The Athlete Gut Microbiome and its Relevance to Health and Performance: A Review GSSI Sports Science Exchange: Gut Microbiome Function, Stability, and Profiling and Relevance to Athletes Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Connect with me HERE: You can find link for the following channels - Website, Facebook, podcast, Instagram, YouTube Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

“You know what you can get away with in your teens and 20s is a little different than your 30s and 40s. Your body is like a classic car now - you can't get away with not servicing it anymore.” This week on the Be Battle Ready Podcast, I’m joined by Clifford Stephan, the founder of Booze Vacation. Clifford’s work focuses on helping people take intentional breaks from alcohol in order to reboot their sleep, metabolic health, energy, cognitive function, and long term wellbeing. Far from preaching sobriety, his approach is rooted in real-world experience, practical strategies, and understanding the way modern life, ageing, stress, and habitual drinking fit together. Clifford shares his own journey from Silicon Valley consultant and lifelong social drinker to discovering how even “normal” drinking patterns were quietly sabotaging his sleep, hormones, recovery, performance at work, and motivation to train. His story will resonate with anyone in their forties, fifties or beyond who has ever wondered whether alcohol is pulling more from their life than it is giving back. Together we explore: This episode is packed with insights for anyone wanting to build more energy, better sleep, sharper thinking, and greater resilience as they age. Clifford’s experience, honesty, and practical approach make this a genuinely eye-opening conversation. Listen now Tune in to learn how smarter alcohol choices can become a genuine performance enhancer for training, work, mood, and long term health. Connect with Clifford Website- BoozeVacation.com TikTok- TikTok.com/@cliffordstephan1 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliffordstephan Instagram- instagram.com/boozevacation/ Men's health Quiz- http://boozevacation.scoreapp.com/ Sleep blog - https://boozevacation.com/sleep-and-alcohol/ Other resources- https://boozevacation.com/resources/ TikTok- TikTok.com/@cliffordstephan1 Clifford’s book recommendation: Good Energy by Dr Casey means - The groundbreaking connection between glucose levels, metabolism, limitless health and longevity Join the SWAT Inner Circle And if you want structure, accountability, and a tactical plan for staying strong, mobile, and resilient all year round, the SWAT Inner Circle is where you’ll find the support to stay Battle Ready for life’s adventures. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic - https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In this episode, running coach Bobby McGee is back to help us understand the revolutionary concept of "broken endurance" - a strategic run-walk approach that challenges everything we think we know about endurance racing. As Bobby said "This is absolutely a performance tool, a performance approach. It is not a concession. You know, when people view it as a concession, then the whole mindset goes... You will perform better utilising this, not only as a training strategy, but very, very definitely for the large majority of endurance athletes, as a racing strategy, as a superior racing strategy." - Bobby McGee In the conversation we talk about psychological barriers that prevent runners from adopting this approach, some compelling success stories, and we have some practical guidance on how to implement broken endurance in both your training and racing. Key Points Discussed: Broken endurance as a performance tool: This isn't a concession - it's a strategic approach that allows athletes to perform better, cover longer distances, and recover faster than continuous running. The physiological benefits: Better heat management, improved cardiac drift control, enhanced fluid absorption, superior blood circulation during walk breaks, and reduced neurological fatigue. Real-world success stories: From a 2:40 marathoner who ran 2:22 using walk-run, to age group athletes consistently outperforming their continuous running times by 4-5 minutes. Overcoming the ego barrier: Why cultural perceptions of endurance and the "Iron Man" mentality prevent athletes from adopting superior racing strategies. Practical implementation: How to find your optimal run-walk ratio (starting with 4:1 or 3:1), the importance of systematic data collection, and adapting intervals based on conditions. Walking technique matters: Maintaining 14-17 minute mile pace during walk breaks, keeping rhythm and cadence, and using the walk as active recovery rather than collapse. Recovery advantages: Dramatically reduced post-workout fatigue, ability to maintain higher training frequency, and reduced injury risk from better form maintenance. Connect with Bobby McGee: Website - bobbymcgee.com Instagram - bobbymcgeerunning Pendola Project - Run Form Bobby also recommends the following books Endure - Alex Hutchinson The Transformational Power of Pure Intelligence Cory Reich Bobby is a consultant for STRYD power meters, He highly recommends the Duo if you want state of the art mechanical data to work on your run Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic - https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In the final episode of the fasting series, Simon and Dr. Jules Strauss tackle the complex question of whether endurance athletes should fast, and if so, how to do it safely without compromising training quality or health. Jules brings her expertise in sports nutrition to provide practical guidance on timing fasting protocols around training seasons, the difference between fasting for weight loss and fasted training for metabolic adaptation, and how to monitor whether a fasting approach is helping or hindering performance. Key Points Discussed: Key Quotation: "I think the key thing to recognise is that this (fasting) isn't going to be a performance enhancer. This isn't an approach that an athlete should pursue from an improved performance perspective. That's not to say that we can't maintain our performance if we carefully manage a fasting approach" — Dr. Jules Strauss Connect with Dr. Jules Strauss: totalendurancenutrition.com@drjulesstrauss_nutritionist If you are training for endurance sport and tempted by fasting please check out this research first: Fuel for the work required Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In part two of the fasting series, Simon and Dr. Jules Strauss dive deep into the different types of fasting protocols available today. From time-restricted eating to extreme approaches with catchy names, they explore what the science actually supports versus what's simply clever marketing designed to sell products. Jules walks through the continuum of fasting approaches and importantly discusses who should avoid fasting altogether, drawing on her expertise in female-specific nutrition and eating disorder awareness. Key Points Discussed: Key Quotation: "I think it's important to recognise and acknowledge that, on the face of it, that is the time restricted eating approach. But when we kind of layer on all these additional kind of rules and restrictions, that's the point at which this becomes incredibly challenging for anyone to really implement... and actually lean more towards promoting and supporting people to engage with more kind of disordered eating behaviour’s." Dr. Jules Strauss Connect with Dr. Jules Strauss: totalendurancenutrition.com@drjulesstrauss_nutritionist **If you are training for endurance sport and tempted by fasting please check out this research first: Fuel for the work required Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic - https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In this first episode of our three-part fasting series, Simon Ward welcomes Dr. Jules Strauss to explore the evolutionary science behind fasting and what actually happens in our bodies when we restrict food intake. While fasting has become a popular topic on social media, Jules brings her decade of research in exercise metabolism to separate the science from the hype. Together, they unpack how our hunter-gatherer ancestors evolved to handle periods without food, the hour-by-hour changes that occur during fasting, and why our relationship with hunger is far more complex than we might think. Key Points Discussed: Key Quotation: "We all typically will fast overnight, and you know, depending on bedtime and waking time, the duration of that overnight fast that we all have will be slightly variable... but ultimately, that overnight fast will mean that we lean slightly more towards fat metabolism." Dr. Jules Strauss Connect with Dr. Jules Strauss: totalendurancenutrition.com@drjulesstrauss_nutritionist If you are training for endurance sport and tempted by fasting please check out this research first: Fuel for the work required Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic: https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com and you might just hear it on a future episode!

In this week’s BeBattleReady podcast, Simon Ward welcomes back Dr Tommy Wood to explore one of the most researched yet misunderstood supplements - creatine. While most athletes associate it with muscle strength, Tommy explains why its benefits go far beyond the gym, extending to brain health, cognitive function, and ageing well. Together, they unpack how creatine works, who should consider supplementing, the differences between athletic and cognitive benefits, and why it might be particularly valuable for older athletes and post-menopausal women. Key Points Discussed: Key Quotation: “Creatine is probably one of the most studied supplements in the world — and on balance, it’s safe, effective, and beneficial for both the body and the brain.” — Dr Tommy Wood Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood: drtommywood.comDrTommyWoodBetter Brain FitnessBetter Brain Fitness Podcast Dr. Tommy Wood's Book (Pre-order now): The Stimulated Mind: Future-Proof Your Brain from Dementia and Stay Sharp at Any Age Book Recommendations: Attention Span by Gloria Mark - how to find focus for a fulfilling life. The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - embrace discomfort to reclaim your wild, happy, healthy self. Join the SWAT Inner Circle The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

The aging athlete's journey doesn't have to mean inevitable decline. In this reflective episode, Simon and Bethany Ward revisit September's most impactful conversations, distilling key lessons from their discussions with running coaches Bobby McGee and Matt Pendola, plus Lucy Hurn's inspiring Iron Man journey through menopause. From proprioception and fast-twitch muscle loss to hormonal chaos and identity questions, this episode tackles the real challenges facing athletes over 50 - and more importantly, the proven solutions that can keep you strong, durable, and competitive for decades to come. Quote of the Episode "70% of what we call aging is about inactivity. The areas where you've made the biggest losses over time are the areas where you can make the biggest gains." - Bobby McGee Key Talking Points Key Takeaways Practical Applications If you want listen to the full podcast conversations, here are the links, Bobby McGee & Matt Pendola - Part 1 - Why running performance declines so fast after 50 Bobby McGee & Matt Pendola - Part 2 - Solutions for maintaining running speed after 50 Lucy Hurn - Qualifying for Kona through the menopause Beth & Simon Ward - Are you still an athlete if you have no races on the calendar The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

Your brain is your most valuable asset - yet most athletes spend more time maintaining their bikes than protecting their cognitive health. In this episode, Simon sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Tommy Wood to explore how endurance athletes can future-proof their brains and maintain sharp cognitive function well into their later years. Dr. Wood, who has also worked with professional athletes in multiple sports including several Olympians and world champions and is releasing his book "The Stimulated Mind" in March 2026, shares his groundbreaking "3-S" model and explains why up to 70% of dementia cases may be preventable through lifestyle choices we make today. Quote of the Episode "The brain is essentially the same as your body - if you want bigger biceps, you need to do bicep curls. If you want a stronger brain, you need to challenge it with complex, novel activities throughout your life." Dr. Tommy Wood Key Talking Points Key Takeaways Dr. Tommy Wood's Book (Pre-order now): The Stimulated Mind: Future-Proof Your Brain from Dementia and Stay Sharp at Any Age Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood: drtommywood.comDrTommyWoodBetter Brain FitnessBetter Brain Fitness Podcast Book Recommendations: Attention Span by Gloria Mark - how to find focus for a fulfilling life. The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - embrace discomfort to reclaim your wild, happy, healthy self. Thank you for tuning in to this week’s episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, please share it with a friend or training partner who might find it inspiring. The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM). Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle Website: www.simonward.co.uk Email: Simon@thetriathloncoach.com Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter 💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!