Facing Doubt, Finding Progress: The Road to IM Austria with Beth Ward

2025-05-28

Beth is back! Just two weeks out from Ironman Austria, Simon and Beth chat through the highs and hurdles of her training journey. From emotional breakthroughs in the pool with swim coach Ray Gibbs to navigating the challenges of a new bike setup, nutrition plans, and a warm-up race at Outlaw Half—this episode is packed with insights for any triathlete prepping for race day. Key Topics: Beth’s follow-up session with swim coach Ray Gibbs Embracing technique over speed and building long-term swim efficiency First impressions of Beth’s new Ribble road ...

Key Topics:

Beth’s follow-up session with swim coach Ray Gibbs
Embracing technique over speed and building long-term swim efficiency
First impressions of Beth’s new Ribble road bike
Bike fitting insights from Phil Burt
Nutrition planning with Precision Fuel & Hydration
Warm-up race reflections from Outlaw Half
Upcoming van-life adventure to Klagenfurt for Ironman Austria
The adrenaline boost from finally receiving the Athlete Guide

Memorable Quotes:

"Your times might not improve, but if you become more efficient, you’ll save matches for the bike and the run." – Ray Gibbs (via Beth)

“You’re not racing anybody else except the course and your own thoughts.” – Simon Ward

“The swim will always be my speed bump I need to get over to get onto the bike.” – Beth Ward

“Precision planning and preparation prevents p**s poor performance.” – Beth quoting her favourite sticker from PF&H

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Swim analysis with Ray Gibbs – Contact Ray Gibbs
Bike fitting with Phil Burt – Visit Phil Burt Innovation
Nutrition strategy call with Emily at Precision Fuel & Hydration – Book a call with a Precision Fuel & Hydration expert
To get 15% off your first PF&H order via our podcast link – drop me an email and I’ll share it personally
Comparison swim videos from both Ray sessions – [Linked in full show notes or Simon’s site]
Follow Beth’s Austria race journey on Facebook – Friend request Beth here

Some FREE Downloads for you

Click here fore the Race Day Execution Checklist

Click here to get your copy of 7 steps to swimming faster Infographic

My personal daily mobility routine, please click HERE**

FREE infographic ‘6 key daily health metrics’, please click HERE

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. Book a call today
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.

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

Call to Action:

If this episode inspired or helped you, please: