Why Running Slower Makes You Stronger
If most of your runs feel exhausting, the problem may not be discipline.
It may be pace.
The Myth That Harder Running Is Better
Many runners believe a run only “counts” if it feels hard.
Over time, this leads to:
- chronic fatigue
- stalled fitness gains
- higher injury risk
- burnout
Easy runs are not junk miles.
They are where endurance is built.
What Easy Runs Actually Do
Easy running:
- builds aerobic capacity
- improves fuel efficiency
- strengthens the cardiovascular system
- supports recovery between harder efforts
Hard runs are the spice.
Easy runs are the foundation.
Why Easy Runs Matter More After Bariatric Surgery
After bariatric surgery, runners often have:
- higher recovery needs
- greater joint sensitivity
- tighter fueling margins
Easy runs protect:
- connective tissue
- joints
- recovery capacity
- long-term consistency
Running hard all the time doesn’t make you tougher.
It makes you more vulnerable.
Slowing Down Requires Confidence
Running slower can feel uncomfortable, not physically, but mentally.
It requires letting go of:
- pace comparisons
- ego
- external validation
Athletes train for outcomes, not optics.
Faster Running Comes From Slower Running
Building a strong aerobic base allows speed to develop naturally.
Strong runners don’t rush progress.
They play the long game.
