Is a long run equivalent to a few short runs?

Question

I go on a long run every night (about 1000 metres) but i get very bad chest pain that i can hardly handle. Would going on a few short runs (about 5x200 metres) every half hour or so be the equivilent in exercise terms?

Thanks

Answer 1

Not really.

Short runs are for the most part anaerobic (don't use oxygen) and longer runs are aerobic. It's two entirely different systems your body uses to supply muscles with energy. A great sprinter can't always do well with distances, and a great cross country runner isn't always a good sprinter.

Answer 2

1000 meters is not far at all, thats not even a mile.

And a long run is more beneficial for your overall health than a few short runs.