In this episode of Beast of Burden, Paul Bassett tackles a common question in the modern fitness world: should I be using wearable fitness tech? From Whoop straps to Apple Watches, heart rate monitors to step counters. Paul shares what’s useful, what’s not, and why too much data can be a distraction.

But this episode isn’t just about gadgets it’s about clarity. Paul breaks down why a well-written plan, followed with consistency, still beats all the high-tech noise. He discusses how tracking only matters if it leads to action, and how the most successful clients aren’t the ones with the best kit they’re the ones who stay focused.

• Why fitness tech isn’t the silver bullet
• The danger of passive tracking and constant data
• What most successful clients actually do
• How to use simple tools like spreadsheets, tape measures, and a training plan effectively
• Paul’s experience with Whoop and why he stopped using it
• How to avoid the “data trap” and focus on execution

“You don’t need to track everything. You need to act on what matters.”

Email in with your own questions and topics you’d like covered on the show: [email protected]

In this first episode of Beast of Burden, host Paul Bassett, founder of Hounds of Health, lays out the foundation for the show and for the mindset needed to thrive under pressure.

Paul shares his personal journey: from being unfit and overwhelmed in the music industry to building a life around strength, structure, and service. He explores the concept of Unique Ability (inspired by coach Dan Sullivan), and how discovering yours can be the turning point in your life and work.

This is a podcast for people who carry a lot — in work, life, and responsibility — and want to build the strength to keep going, not escape.

In This Episode:

Why the answer isn’t to do less, but to get stronger

The danger of coasting and being sideswiped by life

How anxiety often stems from inaction and unfamiliarity

The power of taking action in safe, structured environments

Why identifying your Unique Ability is a game-changer

Lessons from helping musicians and clients believe in a better future

Key Quote:

“What I realised I was good at — throughout my career — was getting people to believe that the future is possible.”

Resources Mentioned:

Dan Sullivan and the Unique Ability concept

Hounds of Health: www.houndsofhealth.co.uk

📩 Have a Question or Topic You Want Covered?

Email Paul directly at: [email protected]

Beast of Burden is a podcast for people carrying a lot – in life, in work, and in their own heads.

Hosted by Paul Bassett, founder of Hounds of Health, each short episode cuts through the noise to tackle real struggles around motivation, consistency, and mindset. Whether you're a busy professional trying to get stronger, a parent juggling everything, or someone simply looking to reclaim some energy and control, this podcast is for you.

Expect honest reflections, practical tools, and lessons from the gym floor that go far beyond reps and sets.

No fluff. No hype. Just the stuff that actually moves the needle – in fitness, and in life.