run it twice poker meaning

"Run it twice" is a term primarily used in poker, particularly in cash games and certain tournament scenarios, to describe a specific situation occurring when there’s a significant amount of all-in action on the turn or river.

Explanation of "Run It Twice":

1. Context of Use:

   • When two players are all-in, instead of revealing all community cards at once, they agree to run the remaining cards twice. This can happen after the turn (fourth community card) or river (fifth community card) has been dealt.

2. Procedure:

   • If the players agree to run it twice, the dealer will burn a card and then deal the next two sets of community cards (if running from the turn, the dealer would reveal two river cards).
   • Each run generates a separate showdown; winning hands are determined from each set of cards.

3. Reasons for Running It Twice:

   • Reduced Variance: Running it twice can reduce the variance and swings in a player’s bankroll. Instead of one potentially large pot, the prize is split between two pots, which can lead to more consistent results.
   • Mitigation of Bad Beats: Players may choose this option to lessen the impact of a "bad beat" (when a player with a strong hand loses to a weaker hand). Running it twice allows for a second chance at winning a share of the pot.

4. Chop of the Pot:

   • If one player wins the first run of the cards, they may also win the second run, or they can split the pots if the hands produce different winners in each run.

5. Agreeing to Run it Twice:

   • Both players must agree to this option. It’s not mandatory; a player can decline the option to run it twice if they don’t want to, even if the other player wishes to do so.
6. Implications on Strategy:
   • Depending on a player’s hand and the pot size, running it twice can affect decision-making and strategy. Players may gamble more aggressively if they know they have a chance to run it twice.

Example Scenario:

• Player A and Player B are all-in after the turn, with a pot of $1,000. They both have strong hands.
• Player A proposes to run it twice, and Player B agrees.
• The dealer burns a card and reveals the first river card, resolving the first pot and determining the winner.
• After that, the dealer burns another card and reveals the second river card to determine the winner of the second pot.

Conclusion:

Running it twice can be a strategic option in cash games, allowing players to mitigate risk and reduce variance. It’s important for both players in the hand to agree to the option, and it introduces an additional layer of strategy and decision-making regarding bankroll management.