Pace Calculator: Running & Walking Pace, Speed & Finish Time
A runner covering 5K (3.1 miles) in 25 minutes has a pace of 8:03 per mile (5:00 per km) at a speed of 7.46 mph. To run a sub-2-hour half marathon (13.1 miles), you need a pace of 9:09/mile or faster.
Calculate Your Pace
Convert between pace, speed, and finish time.
Pace
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Race Projections
Common Race Paces
| Goal | 5K Time | 10K Time | Half Marathon | Marathon | Pace (min/mile) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 35:00 | 1:12:00 | 2:40:00 | 5:30:00 | 11:17 | |||||
| Intermediate | 25:00 | 52:00 | 1:55:00 | 4:00:00 | 8:03 | |||||
| Advanced | 20:00 | 41:30 | 1:32:00 | 3:12:00 | 6:26 | |||||
| Elite | 15:00 | 31:00 | 1:07:00 | 2:15:00 | 4:50 | Pace Conversions | min/mile | min/km | mph | kph |
| 7:00 | 4:21 | 8.57 | 13.79 | |||||||
| 8:00 | 4:58 | 7.50 | 12.07 | |||||||
| 9:00 | 5:35 | 6.67 | 10.73 | |||||||
| 10:00 | 6:13 | 6.00 | 9.66 | |||||||
| 11:00 | 6:50 | 5.45 | 8.78 | |||||||
| 12:00 | 7:27 | 5.00 | 8.05 |
Using Pace for Training
Easy runs: 60-90 seconds slower than your 5K race pace. If you race at 8:00/mile, easy runs are 9:00-9:30/mile. Tempo runs: 25-30 seconds slower than 5K pace. Marathon pace is roughly your tempo pace. Intervals: At or slightly faster than 5K race pace.
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate my pace?
Pace = total time / distance. Example: if you run 3 miles in 24 minutes, your pace is 24 / 3 = 8:00 per mile. To convert to min/km, divide the total time by distance in kilometers. Most GPS watches and phone apps calculate pace automatically during your run.
What is a good running pace for beginners?
A good starting pace for most beginners is 10:00-12:00 per mile (6:13-7:27 per km). The key for beginners is running at a conversational pace — slow enough to hold a conversation without gasping. Speed comes with consistency. Many beginners start with run-walk intervals (run 1 min, walk 1 min) and gradually increase run time.
How can I improve my pace?
Three proven methods: (1) Run more miles per week at an easy pace (80% of training should be easy), (2) Add one interval/speed session per week (e.g., 6x400m at 5K pace with rest), (3) Include one tempo/threshold run per week (20-40 minutes at a comfortably hard pace). Consistency over months matters more than intensity in any single workout.
What pace do I need for a sub-4-hour marathon?
A sub-4-hour marathon requires a pace of 9:09 per mile (5:41 per km) or faster. With typical race-day slowdown, training at 8:45-9:00/mile pace is recommended. Most running coaches suggest you should be able to run a half marathon in 1:50-1:55 before attempting a sub-4 marathon.
Is pace or speed more useful for runners?
Pace (minutes per mile or km) is more practical for runners because it directly translates to race planning and split times. Speed (mph or kph) is more commonly used for cycling, driving, and treadmill settings. Most running plans, race calculators, and GPS watches use pace. This calculator provides both.