Long Runs: Benefits and Best Practices

Long runs build aerobic capacity, mental resilience, and pacing control.

Plan long‑run pace and fueling windows with /health/running-pace-calculator.

Benefits

• Improves fat utilization
• Strengthens connective tissues
• Builds confidence for race distance

Best practices

• Start slower than goal pace
• Practice fueling/hydration
• Recover with easy days after

FAQs

How long should my long run be?

Depends on your race distance and level—build gradually up to 25–35% of weekly mileage.