I use a 4 prong drive center and use the following method.
Insert the wood between centers then using the tails stock like a vice I then lock the head stock and rock the spindle back and forth until I can tighten the tail stock some more, repeat this a couple of times until you can no longer move the piece on the drive. this ensures any play or give in the timber is taken out and negates the fibers softening or working loose.
Obviously ensure your lathe has the strength to use the tail stock in this way.
I have rarely had to retighten during turning with this method. Don't forget to remove the spindle lock when completed.
Or if you have an unruly or odd shaped piece drill a hole with a forstner bit to sit the drive center into, then repeat the above.