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 The Preventable Nature of Dementia – Why 45-70% of dementia cases could be avoided through lifestyle interventions The 3-S Model – Stimulus, Supply, and Support as the foundation of brain health Cognitive Stimulation Beyond Crosswords – Languages, music, complex motor skills, and social connection The Athlete's Advantage – Why complex sports like orienteering beat simple endurance for brain health Nutrition for Neuroplasticity – Omega-3s, B vitamins, and the critical role of energy availability Key Takeaways Challenge your brain like you challenge your body – Novel, complex activities drive neuroplasticity Social connection is medicine – Isolation and loneliness are major dementia risk factors Energy availability matters – Under-fueling affects brain health as much as physical performance Sleep is when adaptation happens – Both physical and cognitive improvements occur during rest It's never too late to start – Even in your 60s and 70s, the brain responds to new challenges Dr. Tommy Wood's Book (Pre-order now): The Stimulated Mind: Future-Proof Your Brain from Dementia and Stay Sharp at Any Age (Release: March 24, 2026) Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood: Website: drtommywood.com Instagram: DrTommyWood Substack: Better Brain Fitness Podcast: Better 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:
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