When I ask people why they’re struggling to get faster, one answer comes up more than anything else:
“I just need to be more consistent.”
But here’s the thing:
Most people don’t actually have a consistency problem.
They have a plan problem.
They keep chasing the next quick strategy from their favorite professional runner…
Or trying to copy what worked for their friend in their running group…
Or downloading yet another extreme plan that promises fast results “just to get back on track”…
All while thinking this time will be different.
Spoiler: it won’t be.
Because the real struggle isn’t consistency.
The real struggle is trying to stay consistent with something that was never designed for you and your individual needs.
So many people confuse consistency with perfection.
You mess up one day, the whole thing’s ruined.
So you restart… again. And again. And again.
But consistency needs to be built on a plan that fits:
- Your life
- Your goals
- Your preferences
- Your body
It’s not a 7-day-a-week running plan designed for a full-time runner.
It’s a strategy that adjusts with you and your needs.
So if you’ve been going through the self-flagellation cycle, constantly wondering “why can’t I just be more disciplined…”
Maybe it’s time to stop blaming your consistency — and start fixing your strategy.