Run it twice in poker: what it is and should you do it
Running it twice means that after an all-in, the remaining board cards are dealt two times, and half the pot goes to the winner of each run. If you win both, you take the whole pot; if you win one, you split it.
How it works
Section titled “How it works”- Both players are all in before the river.
- If the room or the table allows it, both players agree to run it twice.
- The remaining cards are dealt once; then, from the remaining deck, they are dealt again.
- Each run decides half the pot.
Some rooms also allow running it three times. Whether it’s available depends on the site, the game and the table rules — check the room’s rules.
Does it change your winnings?
Section titled “Does it change your winnings?”No, not on average. Your expected value is the same: if you have 70% equity, you win 70% of the pot over time either way. What changes is variance: you’re less likely to lose the whole pot on one bad card. See variance.
Should beginners run it twice?
Section titled “Should beginners run it twice?”- Yes, usually, if the stake feels big for your bankroll. Lower swings help you stay calm and avoid tilt.
- It makes no difference to your long-term results, so it’s a comfort choice.
- When you’re far behind, running it twice slightly increases your chance of winning something; when you’re far ahead, it slightly increases the chance of losing something. The average stays the same.
Etiquette
Section titled “Etiquette”- Ask politely; the opponent can say no.
- Don’t take it personally if someone always refuses.
See also bankroll management.
What does run it twice mean?
Section titled “What does run it twice mean?”After an all-in, the remaining cards are dealt twice and each run wins half the pot.
Does running it twice change expected value?
Section titled “Does running it twice change expected value?”No. It only reduces variance; your average winnings stay the same.
Should beginners run it twice?
Section titled “Should beginners run it twice?”Often yes for comfort and lower swings, if the room and opponent allow it.
Is run it twice available everywhere?
Section titled “Is run it twice available everywhere?”No. It depends on the site, game and table rules.