A common first goal with people starting to run is a 5k, an often used distance. How many miles is it and what is a good time for you?
If you’re getting into running or you’re a more experienced runner, you know that setting goals is great for motivating yourself.
A 5k, or 5 kilometers, is a popular distance in the running world. If you live in the United States you might not be sure how many miles that is.
Discover the distance of a 5k, and other popular running distances like a 10k, a 15k, a half marathon, and an ultramarathon. You will also find out how long it takes to finish such races.
How many miles is a 5k?
A 5k is about 3.1 miles long. This is about the same as 25 laps around a football field, assuming you consider the end zones and sidelines part of the football field. If you run at 6 mph you finish a 5k in 31 minutes. About 10 min per mile.
The 5k world record at the time of writing is 12:37 minutes for men and 14:11 minutes for women (1). For exercise beginners, 35 to 45 minutes can be considered a good 5k time. Most big 5k running races will have the 5k results from their previous years on their website per age and gender.
Most people who regularly exercise can run a 5k without any extra preparation. You most likely also don’t need any supplies during the race unless it is extremely warm. It’s still important to drink enough water before and after.
How many miles is a 10k?
A 10k is about 6.2 miles long. This would be the same as running about 350 times across an NBA basketball court. If you run at 6 mph you can finish a 10k at one hour and 2 minutes.
A 10k is more of a challenge. Even if you work out regularly you might need some extra preparation. During a 10k race you might need some water depending on the temperature.
How many miles is a 15k?
A 15k is about 9.3 miles long. That’s about the same as running 37.5 times around a standard outdoor 400-meter track. At this distance, your tempo depends on how trainer you are.
If you are a more experienced runner you can still manage the 6 mph and finish a 15k about one hour and 33 minutes.
If you are more of a beginner your average tempo might go down to 5 mph. In that case, a 15k run would take about 1 hour and 51 minutes.
At a 15k distance and more you can really benefit from some extra water and maybe even electrolytes during the race.
How many miles is a half marathon?
A half marathon is about 13.1 miles or 21.1 km long. If you run at 5 mph, it will take you about 2 hours and 37 minutes to run a half marathon.
How many miles is a marathon?
A full marathon is about 26.2 miles or 42.2 km long. If you run at 5 mph, it will take you about 5 hours and 15 minutes to run a marathon.
A marathon is more or less the flagship among running races. This exact distance was used to remember the fabled run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides all the way from the Battle of Marathon to Athens to report the victory (2).
How many miles is an ultramarathon?
An ultramarathon is any distance longer than the 26.2 miles or 42.2 km of a marathon. Races are usually rounded numbers like 50 kilometers (31 miles), 100 kilometers (62.1 miles), 50 miles (80.5 kilometers) and 100 miles (160.9 kilometers). However, there are multiple races at different distances.
What is the ideal running pace for you?
A good running pace is different for every individual. Things like age, gender, activity levels and distance are important.
One way to make sure you push yourself enough is by measuring your heart rate. The longer you train the less fast your heart will beat at the same running intensity. By keeping an eye on your heart rate you can make sure you’re pushing yourself enough but not too much.
