Benefits of ~3 Mile Easy Run?

I agree with Benji, but for whatever reasons(s) I would do 4 not 3. Everyone has a run "count" differently, and for me its 4 for the second run.

I've used the second run to build mileage and after building mileage for specific days in the schedule. I found it incredibly beneficial aerobically and my legs often felt fresher the next day having a "shake out" at night than not - could be mental. If your legs, joints, etc can take it, go for it.

Thanks. All helpful stuff.

Porsche wrote:

Yes.

No

In building up mileage, is there more benefit to be gained from adding, say, 3 miles across the week to existing running days rather than going out to do a 3 mile run by itself on what would have been a rest day? Cheers, kids.

Yes.

If it's 3 miles vs a day off, I'd probably just take the day off. If we're talking about a second run for the day, I personally think 3 miles is a fine distance in addition to your main run for the day. I have no evidence to back up that claim, but I like to think that doubles of nearly any distance are beneficial.

In my 50s, my most important run is the 2 mile easy run. Consider it like a warmup to get the muscles warm and the blood flowing to help healing and recovery. I think it is more beneficial than taking a complete day off.

Probably not as important if you crosstrain on that day to get the same effect.