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The Role of Resilience: Building a Stronger Runner Over Time

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Running is more than just physical—it’s a test of resilience. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that building strength isn’t about occasional big efforts but the consistent work we put in day after day. This truth carried me through one of my most unconventional challenges(for the 3rd time!): running 100 miles on a treadmill.

The Power of Resilience

When I signed up for the Dreadmill Endurance Challenge, I wasn’t in peak condition. A knee surgery earlier in the year had disrupted my training, and I lacked the mileage I’d normally have before a 100-mile effort. But here’s the thing: resilience isn’t just about being prepared today. It’s about what you’ve built over time.

Years of consistent training, strength work, and showing up—even on days when I couldn’t do what I wanted—allowed me to tackle this mental and physical challenge. Each mile logged in the past made me a stronger runner for this moment.

What Is Resilience for Runners?

1. Physical Resilience: Training consistently, adapting to the work, recovering from injuries, and prioritizing recovery build a body that can endure.
2. Mental Resilience: Developing the ability to push through discomfort, focus on long-term goals, and maintain a positive mindset during tough moments.
3. Emotional Resilience: Learning to manage self-doubt, setbacks, boredom, and external pressures while staying true to your goals.

Practical Tips to Build Resilience

• Consistency Over Perfection: Don’t let missed runs derail you. Show up for the next one and keep moving forward.
• Embrace Hard Things: Treadmill runs, speed sessions, or those dreaded hill repeats—each challenge strengthens your ability to endure.
• Recover Smart: Listen to your body and respect recovery. Time off when needed is an investment in future resilience.
• Celebrate Growth: Reflect on how far you’ve come. Every mile is part of the bigger picture.

Want to Hear the Full Story?

In my latest episode, Dreadmill Endurance Challenge - 100 Miles to Nowhere, I share exactly how resilience helped me conquer 100 treadmill miles, the mental tricks I used to stay focused, and the lessons I took away.

Listen or Watch Now:Dreadmill 2024​

Let’s continue to build the strength to take on any challenge—one step at a time.

On the journey,

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David

PS: Need help achieving your running goals? Whether you’re tackling your first ultra or aiming for a new PR, personalized coaching can make all the difference. Visit Run the Riot Coaching to learn more and take the next step in your journey!

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