More of the Same

Why Good Running Coaches Repeat Themselves (and Why That’s a Good Thing)

If you’ve followed any good running coaches for more than five minutes, you’ve probably noticed something—they tend to say the same things. Over and over. And over. And no, it’s not because they’re running out of ideas or getting lazy. It’s because the foundations of good running are simple, and the best coaches understand that consistency, not novelty, is what leads to success.  

Let’s break it down:  

1. Good programming isn’t flashy—it works.
Coaches don’t need to reinvent the wheel every time they talk about training plans. Effective programming comes down to balancing stress and recovery, building aerobic fitness over time, and gradually progressing toward your goals. It might sound repetitive, but that’s because it works. The truth is, a good training plan isn’t about excitement; it’s about results.  

2. Eat enough, or pay the price.
Yes, you’ve heard it before: eat enough to fuel your runs. But guess what? It’s still one of the biggest mistakes runners make. Skipping meals or under-fueling might seem like a shortcut to weight loss, but it’s really a fast track to poor performance and injury. Coaches harp on this not because they enjoy nagging but because proper nutrition is the foundation for strong, sustainable running.  

3. Sleep is free performance fuel.
If there’s one performance enhancer every runner should embrace, it’s sleep. Yet, in a world where everyone is trying to do more with less, it’s often the first thing to go. Coaches will remind you—again and again—that you can’t out-train a lack of sleep.  

4. Strength training matters.
You’ve heard it, you’ll hear it again: runners need to lift. No, not just bodyweight exercises (though those are great). Real, heavy strength training builds the resilience needed to possibly prevent injuries and improve performance. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s the truth.  

So yes, good coaches repeat themselves. But that’s because running success isn’t about chasing the latest trends or hacks—it’s about mastering the fundamentals. If you’re tired of hearing the same advice, take it as a sign: it’s probably time to start following it.  

And hey, if you need a reminder, Runners University will be here, repeating the basics—and helping you become the best runner you can be.