How to Be Battle Ready: Build Functional Fitness, Resilience, and Lasting Health

What does it really mean to be battle ready? In this episode of the High Performance Human Podcast, host Simon Ward breaks down a smarter, more sustainable approach to health and fitness — one that’s built for the demands of everyday life, not just race day.

Forget chasing peak performance 24/7. Instead, Simon explores how to create a balanced, resilient body and mind through consistent training, smart recovery, and holistic health habits.

Whether you're a triathlete, weekend warrior, or just someone who wants to stay strong and active as you age, this episode gives you the tools to be fit for life — not just for now.

 

💡 Topics Covered:

• Why you don’t need to be at peak fitness to be ready for life
• The importance of a well-rounded training plan (cardio, strength, mobility)
• How to train smarter with different intensity zones, including Zone 2, VO2 max, and sprint work
• How the “reps in reserve” principle protects you from burnout and injury
• Finding your personal training sweet spot for long-term consistency
• The role of sleep, nutrition, and stress management in building true health and immunity

 

Links & Resources:

• Watch the YouTube video: “How to Be Battle Ready”
• Listen to the recent podcast with Dave Hill
• Explore VO2 Max interval training with Paul Laursen

 

Ready to Take Action?

If you want to build a stronger, healthier, more resilient version of yourself, there are two ways to get started:

1-1 Coaching with Simon Ward – Get a personalised programme designed for your lifestyle and goals
Join the SWAT Inner Circle – Our exclusive training community focused on real-world strength, health, and performance

You can watch a brief video about the group by going to our website here, and join our SWAT High Performance Human tribe here.

 

Support the Podcast:

• Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to buy me a coffee Thank you!
• Subscribe to the High Performance Human Podcast so you never miss an episode
• Share this episode with a friend who wants to train smarter and stay healthy for life
• Leave a review – it really helps others discover the show!

 

**To get a free copy of my personal daily mobility routine, please click HERE**

**To download your FREE infographic ‘6 key daily health metrics’, please click HERE 

 

You’ll also find some really great content on my Instagram and YouTube!

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To contact Beth regarding Life Coaching, please visit her website at BethanyWardLifeCoaching.uk.