Pure Effort Over Athleticism: Why Trying Hard Matters More Than Talent

Adventure Athletes
Jul 6
3 min read

Updated: Aug 17

Everybody Loves a Try-Hard: The Power of Perseverance

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my years of running and racing is simple: pure effort beats natural talent every time. It’s about not giving up, putting one foot in front of the other, and realising you can always keep going—even when you think you can’t.

You don’t have to be the most gifted athlete to achieve your goals. I first realised this while playing 5-a-side football. I wasn’t particularly skillful and barely scored, but I ran relentlessly from start to finish. People found me difficult to play against—not because of talent, but because I never gave them a break.

The Lesson Shows Up Everywhere

This lesson pops up in every race, hike, and adventure I take on—and I see it in others too. There’s nothing better than reaching a summit or finishing a challenge you weren’t sure you could complete.

A perfect example is when we took on 10-y-Fan—10 summits of Pen y Fan in a single day. It was getting a bit silly at the time, but the memory of that achievement will stick with me forever. The same goes for the Welsh 3 Peaks. Our group had a mix of abilities, but perseverance and a refusal to quit meant we all finished together. ANYTHING is achievable.

Consistency & Attitude Over Everything

I’ve raced alongside people with more experience, better training, and more natural athleticism. But by giving my all and refusing to back down, I’ve managed to keep up—and sometimes surprise myself with what’s possible.

Consistency matters. Hard work and dedication pay off. But with the right attitude and a willingness to try, you can take on races or adventures that seem out of reach. Don’t be afraid to throw yourself in and see what happens.

The Best Feeling in the World

Finishing a race or challenge that really tests you—where you’ve battled through tough moments—is unbeatable. If you haven’t felt that yet, what are you waiting for?

The Journey of Growth

Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. When you push yourself beyond your limits, you discover new strengths. Each step forward builds your confidence. Embrace the journey, and remember that every effort counts.

Building a Supportive Community

Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can make a significant difference. A supportive community encourages you to push harder and strive for more. Share your goals, seek advice, and celebrate each other's achievements. Together, you can achieve greatness.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals is crucial. Start small and gradually increase your targets. This approach helps maintain motivation and allows for steady progress. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small. It’s all part of the journey.

Embracing Challenges

Challenges are what make life exciting. They push you out of your comfort zone and help you grow. Whether it’s a physical challenge or a mental one, embrace it. The sense of accomplishment you gain from overcoming obstacles is invaluable.

Finding Your Passion

Discovering what you love is essential. Whether it’s running, hiking, or any other activity, find what excites you. When you’re passionate about something, the effort you put in feels less like work and more like a rewarding experience.