QT: Just Because It’s Counterintuitive, Doesn’t Mean It’s Not True

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There are no shortage of things in life that are counterintuitive.

Opposites attract. Less is more. Having too much fun.

On the surface, these examples almost don’t seem possible.

But when you stop and think about them a bit more, there is more than just a kernel of truth to each of them.

Counterintuitive Running Examples

It probably comes as no surprise to you, at least if you’ve been around for a minute, that I find a lot of overlap between life and running.

And in this case, I mean there are many counterintuitive running truths.

Run Slow, Race Fast

No doubt you’ve heard me drop this little pearl of wisdom before.

But I’m going to keep banging this drum as long as I have a keyboard and/or microphone in front of me.

The fact of the matter is that the best way to race fast is to build your aerobic engine.

And the best way to build your aerobic engine is to keep your easy runs easy.

Simple as.

You Don’t Need to Do More to Keep Building Fitness

This is a big one.

Too often we runners think that the secret to “getting better” in our sport is to run more.

Now, in some situations, more volume is a key piece of the puzzle.

But not in all situations. And, if I’m honest, probably not in most situations.

In many cases, more of the same is as good, if not better, at building fitness than increasing volume.

It’s the old “consistency is king” scenario.

More miles for a week or two? Doesn’t really do much to move the needle.

But steadily putting in the work, week after week after month after year?

That’s the secret sauce right there.

Running is 100% Physical and the Other Half is Mental

Look, I know how math works and this one doesn’t pass muster.

But it’s true.

Could you say running is both 50% physical and mental?

Sure.

But don’t think that’s accurate.

I think that running success truly is 100% of both.

If your physical isn’t on point? You’re not going to have a great day.

And if your mental is lagging? Yeah, you’ve got no chance.

So Many Examples

These are just a few of the many truths in running that are counterintuitive.

Need a few others?

• Running is a full body sport.
• Running is a contact sport.
• Non-runners are inspired by you.

Point is, just because something doesn’t make sense doesn’t mean it’s not true.

No matter how counterintuitive it may seem at first glance.

Just because something in running seems counterintuitive, doesn't mean it isn't also true. #runchat Share on X

What is Your Favorite Running Counterintuitive?

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