When I started being a lot pickier about inflation, I pretty much *stopped* getting flat tires, and became a much "stronger" - faster - rider. Couple of times I went out with the group and thought I must be coming down with something, 'cause I was working so hard... until I realized that no, I hadn't checked the tires.
WHen I did GITAP last year, the third day I didn't bother with the air 'cause I thought my butt was already tired of the seat and that soft tires would make a softer ride. NOT! NOT! NOT! BOY, was I glad to see the ride van 25 miles into the ride, and boy, did it feel better! (and they weren't that soft, either) (The song it inspired is destined to be an underground hit, but the blues ain't worth it! Pump those tires up 'til they're good and stiff)