Pace Calculator
Find your running pace, finish time or distance, with splits and race predictions.
Times assume an even pace. Hills, weather and fatigue all affect real race times.
How to use the pace calculator
Whether you're training for your first 5K or chasing a marathon goal, this calculator helps you plan. Choose what you want to find:
- Pace: enter a distance and time to find your pace per kilometer or mile.
- Finish time: enter a distance and pace to predict your time.
- Distance: enter a time and pace to find how far you'll go.
Tap 5K, 10K, Half or Marathon to fill in a race distance instantly, and switch between kilometers and miles at any time. You'll also get your speed, split times and race predictions at the same pace.
How running pace is calculated
Example: you run 10 km in 55 minutes.
- Pace: 55 ÷ 10 = 5.5 minutes = 5:30 per km
- That's about 8:51 per mile, or 10.9 km/h (6.8 mph)
- At the same pace, a marathon would take about 3:52:04
Pace vs. speed
Runners usually talk about pace (minutes per km or mile), while cyclists and treadmills often show speed (km/h or mph). They're two ways of saying the same thing. To convert:
For example, a 6:00 per km pace is 10 km/h. Treadmill tip: setting a 1% incline roughly makes up for the lack of wind resistance indoors.
Race distances and common goal times
| Goal | Pace per km | Pace per mile |
|---|---|---|
| 5K in 30:00 | 6:00 | 9:39 |
| 10K in 60:00 | 6:00 | 9:39 |
| Half marathon in 2:00:00 | 5:41 | 9:09 |
| Marathon in 4:00:00 | 5:41 | 9:09 |
| Marathon in 3:30:00 | 4:59 | 8:01 |
A half marathon is 21.0975 km (13.1 miles) and a marathon is 42.195 km (26.2 miles).
About race predictions
The race times shown assume you could hold the same pace over every distance. In reality, most people slow down as races get longer. A 10K pace is usually faster than a realistic marathon pace. Use the predictions as a guide, and base long-race goals on recent long runs or races of similar length.
Using splits to pace a race
Splits show the time you should reach each kilometer or mile at your target pace. Many runners write a few key splits on their hand or set them on their watch.
- Even splits: running the same pace throughout is efficient for most runners.
- Negative splits: running the second half slightly faster than the first is a popular strategy that helps avoid fading late in the race.
- Avoid starting too fast. Excitement on race day makes it easy to go out quicker than planned, which often costs time later.
Training tips to improve your pace
- Run mostly easy. Many coaches suggest most weekly running be at a comfortable, conversational pace.
- Add one quality session a week, such as intervals or a tempo run, once you have a base.
- Build mileage gradually to lower your risk of injury.
- Include strength training for your legs and core.
- Rest and recover. Fitness improves during recovery, not just during runs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my running pace?
Divide your total time by your distance. For example, 30 minutes for 5 km is 6 minutes per km. Enter your distance and time above for an instant answer in both kilometers and miles.
What is a good 5K time?
It varies with age, sex and experience. Many beginners finish in 30 to 40 minutes, while regular runners often finish in 20 to 30 minutes. The best goal is improving on your own time.
How do I convert pace per km to pace per mile?
Multiply your pace per km by 1.609. For example, 5:00 per km is about 8:03 per mile. Switch units in the calculator to convert automatically.
What pace do I need for a 4-hour marathon?
About 5:41 per km, or 9:09 per mile, held for the full 42.195 km.
Are the race predictions accurate?
They assume the same pace for every distance, so they're a rough guide. Most runners slow down over longer distances, especially the marathon.