Ever since I started running more seriously, I have discovered the importance of consistency in training.

Consistency refers to the regularity of your running routine.

Even when I don’t feel like going for a run…and we all have days like that…having a mindset of consistency comes to my rescue when my motivation is low.

The old adage, “to get better at running, you need to run” is absolutely the truth. Many times a run has felt hard, but I find that a few weeks later doing the same workout is much easier. It’s a benefit of how our bodies work to adapt and gain fitness, but we miss out on developing that when we aren’t consistent.

I can run the same workout week after week, but if I’m only running once a week that isn’t going to get me better. It’s building on that workout with getting out there for the other runs that keep those adaptations coming.

Building a Strong Foundation

Consistent training allows you to build a solid foundation of running fitness. Running regularly helps your body adapt to the demands of the sport, gradually improving your endurance, strength, and speed.

This aspect of training is one of the things I wish I knew when I first started running. There was so much I didn’t know for a long time. Of course, I wasn’t really in it for the sport of it. I wanted to lose weight, so it was one of the ways that I moved in order to do that.

I’ve been running for 17 or 18 years, and having access to information and the science of it all wasn’t quite a thing yet.

Now that I know how the body works when it adapts to training, consistent running seems like such an important thing now.

Even if you don’t race, keep up your running so your foundation is strong. Your body will thank you!

Skill Development

Running is not just about physical fitness; it’s also about developing running-specific skills. Consistency in training helps refine your running technique, stride efficiency, and pacing strategies.

The more you practice, the more your body becomes familiar with the movements and patterns of running, leading to improved form and reduced risk of injury.

Mental Toughness

Consistent training builds mental toughness and discipline.

There will be days when you don’t feel like running, or when the weather is unfavorable, but sticking to your training plan despite these challenges helps cultivate resilience and determination.

Pushing through our motivational valleys (and you will have them) will give your mental faculties a workout as well. A big part of running is in your head! When we have the discipline to keep going…provided we aren’t injured, of course, it will get us over those times when we find ourselves wanting to quit. Which is invaluable during races and when tackling ambitious running goals.

One note, if you find yourself burning out (rather than just you don’t feel like getting ready for a run) you may be a victim of overtraining. This can lead to quitting no matter how disciplined you are, so keep an eye out for the symptoms.

Progress and Adaptation

Consistency allows you to track your progress over time. By consistently running and recording your workouts, you can see improvements in your pace, distance, and overall performance.

Regular training also allows you to gauge what works best for your body and make adjustments accordingly. It’s through consistent training that you can fine-tune your routine, identify weaknesses, and focus on areas that need improvement.

My husband is coming back from an achilles tendon rupture. His progress has been very slow (on purpose). When life happens and he can’t be consistent with the runs he is able to do, he can tell he goes backwards. The runs feel hard, his achilles hurts and he feels sluggish.

Injury Prevention

Consistency in training is not just about pushing hard but also about balancing it with adequate rest and recovery. Following a consistent training plan helps you avoid overtraining and minimize the risk of injuries.

Gradually increasing your mileage, incorporating rest days, and listening to your body’s signals are all part of consistent training. Training is about more than just the run.

I dropped out of a marathon last year, because I was only getting in a few runs a week. I was doing the long one, but because I wasn’t consistent with the rest of the training it didn’t matter. I wasn’t ready to run the marathon.

So it’s not about sporadic bursts of intense training but rather the regular, dedicated effort put into your running routine.

By making consistency your biggest asset, you’ll reap the rewards of improved running, mental resilience, and the ability to reach your running goals.

So, lace up your shoes, stay committed, and let consistency become the driving force behind your running journey.