How many days a week should I run to truly optimize my fitness journey? Is it enough to adhere to a regimented schedule filled with dedication, or should I integrate a more flexible approach based on my individual capabilities and lifestyle? What role do factors such as age, experience level, and personal goals play in determining the ideal frequency? Moreover, could considerations of recovery and injury prevention necessitate alterations in my running schedule? As I ponder this, I can’t help but wonder: is the “recommended” frequency merely a guideline, or is there an elusive balance that varies from person to person? Should I be focusing solely on mileage, or is it the intensity of the workouts that holds greater significance? In a world brimming with divergent opinions on training regimens, how can one decipher the optimal number of running days that harmonizes with one’s physical limits while still fostering improvement? What’s the answer?