Dynamic Richmond midfielder Dustin Martin believes maintaining consistency is the key to continuing his strong start to the 2014 season.

After the first 12 rounds of the year, Martin is averaging per game more disposals (26) and goals (1.5) than in 2013, when he finished runner-up in the Jack Dyer Medal.

He leads the competition for average kicks per match (17.3), leads the Tigers for inside 50s, uncontested possessions and average disposals, and is second on the Club’s goalkicking list with 17, behind Jack Riewoldt.

A further boost to his fitness levels has enabled him to run out games more than he ever has before.

“I don’t think I’ve missed a beat in any of the pre-seasons I’ve had,” Martin told Richmond’s official weekly podcast, Talking Tigers.

“This year I’ve probably been a bit more consistent with four quarter efforts, so I guess I’ll keep working on it, and keep playing four quarters.

“I’ve been working on a bit of everything - defence at training, tackling, little things like doing touch every day, even doing extra stuff on my day off.”

Martin has made his name in the AFL as a midfielder who possesses an ability to play as a dangerous and damaging forward.

And while he naturally loves a goal, it’s in the midfield coalface where he wants to make the greatest impact.

“I think I play my best footy in the midfield.  I think I’ve taken a step up this year, but there’s still a lot of footy to be played in the second half, so I have to keep it up,” he said.