I often wonder why I haven't gotten much faster. I work hard, I do the right workouts, and I am mentally strong. My friend started XC a year after me and is now faster than me. I think it's because of CONSISTENT TRAINING. Running not only the right workouts but at the right time and through the year. I haven't really ever put in much of a base season (obviously my downfall). My friend has. He grew up around second hand smoke, thus leading me to believe it isn't natural ability that makes him better, but his consistent non-stop training. So, Would i get a lot faster if I ran consistently and put in base?