{"id":2104,"date":"2022-07-24T04:40:11","date_gmt":"2022-07-24T04:40:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.joggo.run\/?p=2104"},"modified":"2024-08-21T14:23:14","modified_gmt":"2024-08-21T14:23:14","slug":"how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/","title":{"rendered":"How Many Miles Should I Run a Day \u2013 Is It About Miles or Minutes?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>How many miles should I run a day? Like most runners, you probably pay attention to both your watch and your feet. But your body feels the miles you run, and ultimately, that\u2019s what you should be paying attention to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some runners can run more miles than others. But how many miles you run depends on your running goals and other factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we look at how many miles is safe to run. We\u2019ll also see whether running by time rather than distance has any advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how many miles should you run a day?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_56_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >In This Article:<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#does-running-a-lot-make-you-faster\" title=\"Does Running a Lot Make You Faster?\">Does Running a Lot Make You Faster?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#is-it-better-to-run-for-time-or-distance\" title=\"Is It Better to Run for Time or Distance?\">Is It Better to Run for Time or Distance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-to-increase-my-mileage\" title=\"How to Increase My Mileage?\">How to Increase My Mileage?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-do-i-know-if-im-running-too-much\" title=\"How Do I Know if I\u2019m Running Too Much?\">How Do I Know if I\u2019m Running Too Much?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day-factors-to-consider\" title=\"How Many Miles Should I Run a Day? Factors to Consider\">How Many Miles Should I Run a Day? Factors to Consider<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#your-running-or-fitness-goals\" title=\"Your running or fitness goals\">Your running or fitness goals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#your-fitness-level\" title=\"Your fitness level\">Your fitness level<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#your-other-activities\" title=\"Your other activities\">Your other activities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#your-age\" title=\"Your age\">Your age<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#your-overall-training-program\" title=\"Your overall training program\">Your overall training program<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#daily-running-guide\" title=\"Daily Running Guide\">Daily Running Guide<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#for-beginners\" title=\"For beginners\">For beginners<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#for-advanced-runners\" title=\"For advanced runners\">For advanced runners<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#so-should-you-run-every-day\" title=\"So, Should You Run Every Day?\">So, Should You Run Every Day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#benefits-of-running-every-day\" title=\"Benefits of Running Every Day\">Benefits of Running Every Day<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-to-build-a-habit-of-running-regularly\" title=\"How to Build a Habit of Running Regularly\">How to Build a Habit of Running Regularly<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#takeaways\" title=\"Takeaways\">Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#frequently-asked-questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions \">Frequently Asked Questions <\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-if-im-just-starting-out\" title=\"How many miles should I run if I&#8217;m just starting out?\">How many miles should I run if I&#8217;m just starting out?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-lose-weight\" title=\"How many miles should I run to lose weight?\">How many miles should I run to lose weight?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-improve-my-endurance\" title=\"How many miles should I run to improve my endurance?\">How many miles should I run to improve my endurance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-prepare-for-a-race\" title=\"How many miles should I run to prepare for a race?\">How many miles should I run to prepare for a race?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/#how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-avoid-injury\" title=\"How many miles should I run to avoid injury?\">How many miles should I run to avoid injury?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"does-running-a-lot-make-you-faster\"><\/span>Does Running a Lot Make You Faster?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you increase your mileage, you build <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-run-faster-and-build-endurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">not only endurance but also speed<\/a>. You\u2019ll find it easier to run long distances. At the same time, you\u2019ll notice improvements in your speed. The gains are especially noticeable in new runners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/24171815_Training_Characteristics_of_Qualifiers_for_the_US_Olympic_Marathon_Trials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A 2007 study<\/a> on US Olympic <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/couch-to-marathon-running-how-long-does-it-take-to-train-for-a-marathon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marathon<\/a> Trial qualifiers found that women who trained more had faster race times. That said, jogging will primarily burn fat rather than build speed. Running at easy to moderate paces will make your speed gains plateau.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More specific exercises like interval runs, Fartlek runs, and running drills can boost your running speed more than jogs. Put another way, you have to run fast to accustom your body to run faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, to build speed as a runner, it\u2019s important to combine running a lot with running fast. Without pushing yourself to the point of breaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wondering how long to run in a day? Studies suggest that<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4131752\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> running for at least 30 minutes at a time<\/a> leads to physiological adaptations that make you a faster runner. While there are no hard and fast rules, it\u2019s better to run for 30 minutes than 20 minutes or less.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/run-3km-everyday\/\">Running for longer can be even more beneficial for some runners<\/a>. But if you\u2019ve just started running, 30 minutes is a good run time to aim for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aerobic fitness<a href=\"https:\/\/www.hindawi.com\/journals\/jnme\/2010\/905612\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> plays a key role<\/a> in high-intensity exercise. Boosting your aerobic fitness is crucial if you plan on running far and hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"is-it-better-to-run-for-time-or-distance\"><\/span>Is It Better to Run for Time or Distance?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The mind processes<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5998813\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> time and distance<\/a> differently. When you run for time, you have to keep glancing at your watch. Because the progress feedback you\u2019re getting is not continuous, you\u2019ll be more likely to maintain an even pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you run for distance and see progress cues, such as the curves of a track, you may accelerate more at certain points. In some cases, this can lead to a better finish time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the advantage of running by time rather than distance is that you know how long your running session will take you. You\u2019ll be less likely to push yourself too hard and risk injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-to-increase-my-mileage\"><\/span>How to Increase My Mileage?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your body needs time to adapt to the stress running puts on it. This is why it\u2019s best to increase your running mileage gradually, by no more than 10% every week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every fourth week, decrease your weekly mileage by 30%. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Increasing your mileage too fast could get you sidelined. Yet, in the beginning, the runner\u2019s high can make it tempting to keep on adding the miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running can give you a high, though this<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/7070250\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> doesn\u2019t appear to be due to endorphins<\/a>. The runner\u2019s high is likely caused by endocannabinoids, where levels in the bloodstream<a href=\"https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/wellness-and-prevention\/the-truth-behind-runners-high-and-other-mental-benefits-of-running#:~:text=Research%20shows%20that%20endorphins%20do,in%20the%20bloodstream%2C%20Linden%20explains.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> go up when you run<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The thing to remember is that good runners know when to rest. Don\u2019t think of rest days as time wasted not running. Rather, see them as necessary components of your running journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the end, the safest and most effective way to increase your mileage is to follow a personalized running plan. The plan should take into account your fitness level, weight, running experience, and running goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-do-i-know-if-im-running-too-much\"><\/span>How Do I Know if I\u2019m Running Too Much?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your body will be the first to tell you if you\u2019re running too much. And you don\u2019t have to wait to develop a runner&#8217;s knee, Achilles tendonitis, or a stress fracture to cut back on those miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running too much can lead to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5019445\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> overtraining syndrome<\/a>, which comes with a host of symptoms. Some of the key signs that you\u2019re running too much include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Running feels difficult \u2013 you have heavy feet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drop in running performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor recovery between runs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feeling tired or exhausted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decreased appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trouble sleeping<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aches and pains<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty focusing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of motivation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irritability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, take a break from running. You should also stop running if you develop a running injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recreational runners have an injury rate<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4637912\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> as high as 65%<\/a>. A significant number of these injuries involve Achilles tendonitis, a type of chronic inflammation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strength and resistance exercises can help you strengthen your Achilles tendon to avoid injuring it when running. Meanwhile, intermittent running and downhill exercises can<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26562001\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> help strengthen your bones<\/a>. But don\u2019t forget that running is a high-impact activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running too much may cause bone fatigue, stress fractures, and other injuries. Resting in between runs is crucial to prevent these.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day-factors-to-consider\"><\/span>How Many Miles Should I Run a Day? Factors to Consider<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning your running sessions, weigh your fitness levels and goals, age, and a few other key factors. Let\u2019s take a closer look at these.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"your-running-or-fitness-goals\"><\/span>Your running or fitness goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you want to lose weight? Train for a running event? Something else? If you want to burn fat, you can see results by running just one mile a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your fitness goals are one of the big factors when deciding how much to run. Take them into account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Good to know:<\/strong> Following a running program<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK221839\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> can be a key predictor<\/a> of successfully managing your weight in the long term. <a href=\"https:\/\/healthreporter.com\/joggo-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more<\/a> how Joggo can help you achieve the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"your-fitness-level\"><\/span>Your fitness level<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the couch has been your best friend over the last few years, you need to start slow. But if you\u2019ve been running, training, or playing sports, you may be able to handle longer runs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you\u2019re an experienced runner, don\u2019t push yourself too hard. There are only so many miles a day your body can handle without injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"your-other-activities\"><\/span>Your other activities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you strength train? Cycle? Swim? Dance? Play football? Factor in any other physical activity you do simultaneously with running and lower your mileage to account for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"your-age\"><\/span>Your age<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can enjoy running well into old age. Take Rod Waterlow, for example. At 83, he was the oldest qualifier for the 2020 Boston Marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But the older you get, the less stress your body can handle. Lower your daily mileage accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"your-overall-training-program\"><\/span>Your overall training program<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Running every single day of the week isn\u2019t sustainable in the long term. It\u2019s good to give yourself at least a day or two of rest every week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How much you run every day ultimately depends on your weekly target. Divide that by the number of days you run to determine the weekly average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"daily-running-guide\"><\/span>Daily Running Guide<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning on lacing your running shoes every day? That\u2019s great. Here are quick guides to help you get started. Whether you\u2019re a beginner or advanced runner, we got you covered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for-beginners\"><\/span>For beginners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/start-running-today\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/start-running-today\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">If you\u2019re new to running<\/a>, consider taking the<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fphys.2019.01349\/full\" target=\"_blank\"> Cooper fitness test<\/a> to measure your aerobic fitness level. During this test, you run for 12 minutes, trying to cover as much distance as you can. Ideally, you\u2019d do it on a running track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the results, you can set running goals you can achieve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Running a mile a day.<\/strong> Is running a mile a day good? Yes, it is if you\u2019ve never run regularly before. The benefits of running a mile a day include losing weight,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ahajournals.org\/doi\/10.1161\/JAHA.115.002014\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> better heart health<\/a>, stress release,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2009\/02\/090227080005.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> stronger bones<\/a>, and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1074742706001596\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> cognitive improvements<\/a>. It also has an<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/24026850\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> antidepressive effect<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Running 2 miles a day.<\/strong> Already in decent physical shape? Try running 2 miles a day. Increasing your mileage to two miles a day can help you burn more calories and build endurance. Plus, you get all the other benefits of running daily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Running 3 miles a day.<\/strong> Logging 3 miles a day is a great way to shed pounds faster. It\u2019s a challenging distance for beginners while remaining manageable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for-advanced-runners\"><\/span>For advanced runners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Have you been running for at least a few years? You can run several miles every day. But keep in mind that more is not necessarily better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Running 3\u20134 miles a day.<\/strong> This is a good distance for many experienced runners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Running 5 miles a day.<\/strong> It\u2019s doable if you\u2019re a seasoned runner. But if you\u2019re overweight or prone to injuries, you may have a higher risk of stress fractures, runner\u2019s knee, and other injuries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"so-should-you-run-every-day\"><\/span>So, Should You Run Every Day?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Running every day for short distances of 1 to 3 miles or up to 30 minutes is safe if you warm up and cool down properly. That said, you don\u2019t have to run every day to enjoy the benefits of running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you want to shed weight, become a better runner, or prepare for a running event, rest days help you get there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running every day carries risks, especially if you\u2019re new to running. You may push yourself too hard without realizing it and injure yourself in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"benefits-of-running-every-day\"><\/span>Benefits of Running Every Day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Running is one of the best activities for health. And it does more than make you feel great. According to<a href=\"http:\/\/content.onlinejacc.org\/article.aspx?articleID=1891600\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> a long-term study<\/a>, even 5 to 10 minutes of running every day at a low intensity can add years to your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like other physical exercises, running has a<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3258000\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> protective effect on the brain<\/a>. It may reduce cognitive decline and improve neuroplasticity, which facilitates learning. What\u2019s more, high levels of physical activity reduce the risk of breast, prostate, colon, and other cancers<a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/acsm-msse\/Fulltext\/2019\/06000\/Physical_Activity_in_Cancer_Prevention_and.20.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> by 10% to 50%<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A<a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/sji.12834\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> 2019 review<\/a> found no clear links between acute running and cycling on T cell apoptosis. This brings into question the theory that exercise helps the immune system flush out exhausted cells. However, running has plenty of other documented benefits to make it well worth your time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the end, the benefits of running every day apply only if you run without pushing yourself too hard. If you run for miles and miles every day, running injuries will offset any benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you plan to run every day, run for no more than 30 minutes. Warm up and cool down properly. And build cross-training such as swimming or cycling into your schedule to ease the pressure on your bones and prevent stress fractures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-to-build-a-habit-of-running-regularly\"><\/span>How to Build a Habit of Running Regularly<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Start small. Run a mile a day if that\u2019s all you can or have time for. Even a daily mile run can have significant benefits on your body. You can also alternate running with walking a mile a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get a pair of comfortable running shoes and other running gear. Leave these where you\u2019ll see them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plan your runs and track and share your progress to stay motivated. Following a running plan and using a running app can make this easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before running, it\u2019s crucial to warm up and cool down.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/fitness\/in-depth\/exercise\/art-20045517#:~:text=A%20warmup%20gradually%20revs%20up,heart%20rate%20and%20blood%20pressure\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> According to the Mayo Clinic<\/a>, warming up increases muscle blood flow and raises your body\u2019s temperature. It may help reduce the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cooling down, meanwhile, helps ease your cardiovascular system into a comfortable heart rate and blood pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"takeaways\"><\/span>Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you start running a mile a day or more, here are a few things to remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Run a mile a day or more for health benefits and to feel great.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask yourself, \u201cHow many miles should I run a day?\u201d now and then. That\u2019s because the answer depends on dynamic factors like your fitness level, weight, age, and running progress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Running at least half an hour a day can be better for optimal health than <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/your-guide-to-running-2-miles-a-day-transformation\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/your-guide-to-running-2-miles-a-day-transformation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">running a set number of miles<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can experience the benefits of running without having to run every single day of the week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Running every day can cause injuries and be detrimental if you push yourself too hard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Listen to the signals your body is sending you to increase or decrease the mileage accordingly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-if-im-just-starting-out\"><\/span><strong>How many miles should I run if I&#8217;m just starting out?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re new to running, it&#8217;s important to start slowly and gradually increase your mileage over time. A good starting point is to run 3-4 times per week for 20-30 minutes each time. You can then gradually increase your mileage by 10-15% each week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-lose-weight\"><\/span><strong>How many miles should I run to lose weight?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Running is a great way to lose weight, but it&#8217;s important to combine it with a healthy diet. Aim to run 3-5 times per week for 30-60 minutes each time. You can also try interval training, which involves alternating between high-intensity and low-intensity running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-improve-my-endurance\"><\/span><strong>How many miles should I run to improve my endurance?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To improve your endurance, you need to run consistently and gradually increase your mileage. Aim to run 3-5 times per week for 45-60 minutes each time. You can also try running longer distances, such as a 5K or 10K race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-prepare-for-a-race\"><\/span><strong>How many miles should I run to prepare for a race?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The amount of mileage you need to run to prepare for a race depends on the distance of the race and your fitness level. However, a good rule of thumb is to run 2-3 times per week for 45-60 minutes each time in the weeks leading up to the race. You can also try running long runs on the weekends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-many-miles-should-i-run-to-avoid-injury\"><\/span><strong>How many miles should I run to avoid injury?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s important to listen to your body and take rest days when you need them. You should also strength train at least twice a week to build muscle and prevent injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>References:<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/elibrary.ru\/item.asp?id=45636283\">Khujamkeldiyev, G.S., 2021. Effect of running on human health. In&nbsp;<em>\u0424\u0438\u0437\u0438\u0447\u0435\u0441\u043a\u043e\u0435 \u0432\u043e\u0441\u043f\u0438\u0442\u0430\u043d\u0438\u0435 \u0438 \u0441\u043f\u043e\u0440\u0442 \u0432 \u0432\u044b\u0441\u0448\u0438\u0445 \u0443\u0447\u0435\u0431\u043d\u044b\u0445 \u0437\u0430\u0432\u0435\u0434\u0435\u043d\u0438\u044f\u0445<\/em>&nbsp;(pp. 221-224).<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/abs\/10.1080\/13548509808402235\">Szabo, A., Frenkl, R., Janek, G., Kalman, L. and Laszay, D., 1998. Runners\u2019 anxiety and mood on running and non-running days: An in situ daily monitoring study.&nbsp;<em>Psychology, Health &amp; Medicine<\/em>,&nbsp;<em>3<\/em>(2), pp.193-199.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jacc.org\/doi\/abs\/10.1016\/j.jacc.2014.11.023\">Schnohr, P., O\u2019Keefe, J.H., Marott, J.L., Lange, P. and Jensen, G.B., 2015. Dose of jogging and long-term mortality: the Copenhagen City Heart Study.&nbsp;<em>Journal of the American College of Cardiology<\/em>,&nbsp;<em>65<\/em>(5), pp.411-419.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/1047279794900728\">Suter, E., Marti, B. and Gutzwiller, F., 1994. Jogging or walking\u2014comparison of health effects.&nbsp;<em>Annals of epidemiology<\/em>,&nbsp;<em>4<\/em>(5), pp.375-381.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/abs\/10.1111\/j.1600-0838.2004.00394.x\">Schnohr, P., Kristensen, T.S., Prescott, E. and Scharling, H., 2005. Stress and life dissatisfaction are inversely associated with jogging and other types of physical activity in leisure time\u2014The Copenhagen City Heart Study.&nbsp;<em>Scandinavian journal of medicine &amp; science in sports<\/em>,&nbsp;<em>15<\/em>(2), pp.107-112.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How many miles should I run a day? Like most runners, you probably pay attention to both your watch and&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2110,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"14","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2104"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2104"}],"version-history":[{"count":26,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2104\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4465,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2104\/revisions\/4465"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2110"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2104"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2104"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}