First Double-Run Day
Workout - First Double-Run Day
- 10min @ 6'30''/km
- 20min @ 5'40''/km
- 10min @ 6'30''/km
- 30min @ 6'45''/km
- 5min rest
Intro
Want the breakdown of How to “Double Run Day” (and are they worth it?) from This Messy Happy? We’ve pulled together the essentials so you can test this workout immediately. The full video is worth your time if you want deeper context.
Key Points
- What it is: Break a single run into two distinct workouts—one in the morning, one at night.
- Why try it: 1) recovery feels smoother than grinding out one long session, 2) triggers two growth-hormone surges and bumps metabolic rate twice, 3) depleting glycogen twice daily can boost your energy-storage capacity, 4) lets you rack up mileage when life’s hectic or you’ve hit a training wall.
- When to avoid: if you’re still establishing a base of continuous 60‑90 min runs, or if you have fewer than 3‑5 years of solid training under your belt, the added load could do more harm than good.
- How to structure it:
- First run: more intense, anywhere from 6 mi (≈10 km) to 40‑45 min—match it to your current fitness.
- Second run: keep it easy, short (30‑40 min), and at a pace you can sustain while chatting.
- Frequency: begin with just one double day per week and run both sessions at an easy effort.
- Progression: build up each run gradually as the season moves forward (for example, 45 min + 45 min = 1.5 h total).
Workout Example
Morning Run (harder) : 30‑40 min at a comfortably‑hard pace (up to 6 mi/10 km)
Evening Run (easy) : 30‑40 min at an easy, conversational pace (≤6 mi/10 km)
New to doubles? Kick off with 30 min each, then tack on 5‑10 min per run when you’re ready.
Closing Note
Take the double‑run day for a spin—use the Pacing app to fine-tune durations and paces for your fitness level. Experiment freely, and know you’re always free to adjust based on what fits your schedule and goals. Happy running!
References
- How to “Double Run Day” (and are they worth it?) - YouTube (YouTube Video)