Battle Ready Fitness: Why You Don’t Need Endless Training to Do Epic Things

2025-08-27

In this week’s episode, Simon and Beth broadcast from Istanbul, fresh from Simon’s attempt at the iconic Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim. Covering 6.5km from Asia to Europe, this unique race combines history, strategy, and a little bit of chaos. Beth puts Simon in the hot seat to find out what the experience was like, what really happened with the current, and how his Battle Ready approach allowed him to take it on without changing his regular training. They also look back at Simon’s recent 218km gravel ride across Salisbury Plain, discussing how consistency, strength train...

In this week’s episode, Simon and Beth broadcast from Istanbul, fresh from Simon’s attempt at the iconic Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim. Covering 6.5km from Asia to Europe, this unique race combines history, strategy, and a little bit of chaos. Beth puts Simon in the hot seat to find out what the experience was like, what really happened with the current, and how his Battle Ready approach allowed him to take it on without changing his regular training.

They also look back at Simon’s recent 218km gravel ride across Salisbury Plain, discussing how consistency, strength training, and sustainable routines can keep you prepared for big adventures—whether you’ve got three months’ notice or just a week.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The history and logistics of the Bosphorus Swim, including how to qualify and what makes it so different from a normal open-water race.
Why navigation and currents are just as important as fitness on race day.
The reality of swimming among thousands of jellyfish—and why they weren’t as scary as expected.
How Simon’s regular three-times-a-week swim routine (plus strength and mobility) was enough preparation.
Reflections from a 218km gravel ride: pacing, heat, cramp, and the importance of being “always ready.”
Why Battle Ready training is less about huge training blocks and more about building a consistent lifestyle.

Get a feel for the event by watching this video Bosphorous Cross Channel swimmers guide

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Website: www.simonward.co.uk

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💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to beth@thetriathloncoach.com — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

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