Do You Need To Learn More, Or Do More To Improve Endurance?

When you were new to this sport, what did you think you needed to do before you could get going? Read, ask, listen, learn and gain knowledge?

What if I told you that knowledge is great, but actually getting out there and putting the practice in is even more valuable?

You might be surprised to hear me - a coach - say such a thing. After all, I'm in the business of imparting knowledge about training, racing, recovering and nutrition for endurance sport. 

But it's practice - as well as knowledge - which will improve your endurance.

It's the same for any new skill in life: a new hobby, playing an instrument, speaking a foreign language. Of course, you need to learn the basics when you first start out. And a good coach, teacher or mentor is invaluable. But all the book learning, lessons, classes and information will be a bridge to nowhere without hours and hours of "doing".

That's the difference between learning something… and practicing something.

Here are 5 reasons why I'd encourage you to move beyond just learning...

• Learning can be passive and goalless. But practicing is always active, deliberate, and focused on a result.
• Learning can result in gaining knowledge (and nothing else). But practicing leads to skills.
• Learning can keep us trapped in indecision and inactivity. When do you decide it's time to stop taking on knowledge and start "doing"?
• Practicing is active, and marks the point where you put all your learning into action. It's only through practice that you can make mistakes (and learn from them).
• Practicing is the only way in which you'll actually see measurable results, or reach a goal. If you're always just learning, you never give yourself that opportunity.
• Practicing demands energy and sends your focus outwards towards goals, successes and progress. Learning keeps you stuck in a cycle of needing more knowledge.

I ask my clients to do both, and ideally I want them to slowly move away from learning and do a lot more practicing.

Is it time for you to stop thinking and start doing? Let me know if you need my help as you get practicing to improve your endurance.