A Simple, Effective, and Grounded Approach to Health That Anyone Can Follow

In a world of complicated workout plans and ever-changing fitness trends, there’s something timeless—and surprisingly effective—about the simple act of running at a steady pace. Chad Pratt of California, a lifelong runner and advocate of sustainable wellness, has built his entire approach to fitness around one principle: consistency over intensity.

For over 30 years, Chad has chosen steady state running as his go-to practice. Not because it’s trendy. Not because it’s flashy. But because it works—and it keeps working.

“You don’t need to crush yourself to get results,” he says. “You just need to move steadily, day after day, and let time do its work.”

What Is Steady State Running?

Steady state running means running at a consistent, moderate pace that keeps your heart rate in the aerobic zone—typically 60–75% of your max. It’s not a sprint, and it’s not a jog. It’s that sweet spot where you’re breathing steadily, your body is working, and you could hold a conversation if needed.

“You’re not pushing the limit,” Chad explains. “You’re settling into a rhythm—and staying there.”

It’s that rhythm that creates lasting results.

Why Steady State Running Has Worked for Chad Pratt

From the sunny trails of Southern California to the foggy mornings near the coast, Chad has made running a part of his daily life. He doesn’t track his pace obsessively. He doesn’t care about race times. What he values is how running makes him feel—and how it fits into his life year after year.

Here’s why Chad continues to stick with steady state running after all these years:

1. It’s Gentle Enough to Do for Life

High-intensity workouts might deliver fast results, but they also come with a high risk of injury and burnout. Steady running, on the other hand, allows your body to adapt gradually and recover fully.

“I’ve avoided injury by not overdoing it,” Chad says. “I listen to my body and keep things sustainable.”

That’s why he’s been able to run consistently for decades—while many of his peers have come and gone from the fitness scene.

2. It Supports a Clear Mind and Balanced Emotions

Chad doesn’t just run for his body—he runs for his brain. Steady state running has become his go-to method for reducing stress, gaining perspective, and reconnecting with himself.

“It’s where I think through problems—or forget them entirely,” he laughs. “It’s my space to breathe.”

This mental benefit has kept him steady through life’s transitions, personal challenges, and moments of overwhelm. Running isn’t just exercise—it’s clarity on the move.

3. It Builds Real, Functional Endurance

Steady state running trains the heart, lungs, and muscles to perform over time. It builds stamina that goes beyond the trail—helping with everything from hiking and travel to managing daily energy levels.

“You don’t realize how much it helps until you’re living your life and not getting winded by stairs or long days,” Chad says.

That endurance is one of the most underrated but valuable aspects of the practice.

4. It Encourages Fat Burning and Metabolic Health

Steady state running trains the body to use fat for fuel more efficiently, supporting healthy weight and balanced blood sugar over time. It avoids the spike-and-crash cycle that can come from overly intense sessions.

“I’ve stayed lean and energetic without ever counting calories,” Chad notes. “Running gives me what I need—and helps keep my system running clean.”

5. It’s Low-Barrier, High-Reward

Chad loves that you don’t need a gym, coach, or fancy gear to get started. Just a pair of shoes and a willingness to begin.

“You can start steady state running today, no matter your age or fitness level,” he says. “It’s that accessible.”

Because it’s so low-pressure, it’s easier to build into a daily or weekly habit—and those habits are what truly move the needle for long-term health.

Chad Pratt’s Advice for Beginners

If you’re thinking of trying steady state running, Chad offers some down-to-earth advice:

• Start slow and short. “Even 10–15 minutes counts when you’re starting out.”
• Use run-walk intervals. “Don’t be afraid to take breaks. They help build endurance.”
• Stay focused on effort, not pace. “You’ll know you’re in the right zone if you’re breathing deeply, but comfortably.”
• Be patient. “Results come slowly, but they last longer.”
• Enjoy the process. “Let running be your time—not something you have to suffer through.”

Final Thoughts: A Steady Path Is a Strong One

In the noise of modern fitness culture, steady state running offers something rare: peace. It’s not about breaking records or burning out—it’s about becoming stronger, clearer, and more centered with each mile.

Chad Pratt of California is living proof that this approach works—not just for weeks or months, but for a lifetime. Through consistency, patience, and trust in the process, he’s built a relationship with running that continues to serve him, year after year.

“You don’t need to be fast,” he says. “You just need to keep going. That’s where the power lives—in the steady forward motion.”

So if you’re ready for a fitness habit that feels good, fits into real life, and actually lasts, take it from Chad:

Start steady. Stay steady. And let that rhythm carry you into your best, healthiest self.