The Number One Skill To Become A Better Runner

Consistency

Are you new to running? Are you trying to figure out how to become a better runner? Well, don’t overlook the number one skill needed to become a better runner. What is that skill you ask? Well, it’s consistency. Yes, consistency is a skill. And it’s the primary skill that will make you a better runner.

When I first started out running, I had minimal success. I wasn’t the fastest person out there, but I wasn’t the slowest either. Regardless of that, I went a good period of time before I really started improving. So what changed for me? I started following a training plan. This plan had me running 4-5 days a week. That was the first time I started to see improvement.

The next time I started to see improvement was when my mileage and number of days started to increase. These days, I average 6 days a week and 40-50 miles. Some of you might not think that is that much. Others may be amazed at that total. If you are in the latter group thinking you will never get there, then don’t despair. I was once in that same group. You can get there. It just takes time and consistency.

Tips To Become More Consistent

Set a Time

Running at the same time of day on your training days helps to engrain a pattern for said days. Your less apt to encounter days where you find that you can’t fit in your run if you have a set time already in place.

Something is Better than Nothing

Some days you may only have 15 - 30 minutes of free time. Taking the time to run during that time is better than nothing and will help set you up with a consistent practice.

Use a Training Plan or Get a Coach

Having a schedule of planned workouts will definitely force you to be more consistent in your running practice. I know it did me.

Get a Partner

An accountability partner will also force you to be more consistent in your practice. This is especially true if you are running with them. As an added bonus, a partner can definitely make your runs more enjoyable!

Sign Up for a Race

Knowing that you have an upcoming deadline, or race date rather, will force you to be more consistent with your practice as well. If you are shelling out some coin for a race, then 9 times out of 10, you will be putting out more effort so that you can meet your upcoming race goal!

Ease into It

It happens every year after New Year’s. Thousands of people make a commitment to get healthy. Then thousands end up stopping a month in for a variety of reasons. One of the most common is that they get burnt out by doing too much too soon. It’s okay to ease into running. You’re apt to set up a more consistent running practice if you do. It’s okay to start out running just two days a week. Then slowly progressing to three, then four, then five, and maybe even six!

Progress over Perfection

Not every run is going to be perfect. Some days will feel like you took a step backwards. That’s okay. Not every run will be perfect. The thing to focus on is how far you have come thus far. Don’t just look at one workout.