Race Pace Calculator
Find the exact pace you need for your target finish time. Works for 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, or any custom distance.
Pace /km
5:00
Pace /mi
8:03
Finish Time
25:00
Speed
12.0 km/h
(7.5 mph)
Split times: hold 5:00/km for every kilometer to finish in 25:00.
Calculations run entirely in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
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Get Started FreeHow Race Pace Works
Your race pace is the steady speed you need to maintain across an entire race to hit your target finish time. It is calculated as finish time ÷ race distance. For example, a 25-minute 5K works out to 5:00 per kilometer — hold that split for every kilometer and you cross the line right on target.
The challenge on race day is not the math but the execution: starting too fast, fading in the final third, or misjudging hills and wind. Knowing your target pace lets you set lap alerts on your watch and stay disciplined from the first step.
This calculator shows pace in both min/km and min/mi, plus your equivalent speed in km/h and mph, so it works regardless of which units your watch or training plan uses.
Common Target Paces
| Goal | Pace /km | Pace /mi | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sub-20 5K | 4:00 | 6:26 | 15.0 km/h |
| Sub-25 5K | 5:00 | 8:03 | 12.0 km/h |
| Sub-50 10K | 5:00 | 8:03 | 12.0 km/h |
| Sub-1:45 Half | 4:59 | 8:01 | 12.1 km/h |
| Sub-2:00 Half | 5:41 | 9:09 | 10.6 km/h |
| Sub-4:00 Marathon | 5:41 | 9:09 | 10.6 km/h |
| Sub-3:30 Marathon | 4:58 | 8:00 | 12.1 km/h |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate my race pace?
Divide your target finish time by the race distance. For example, a 25:00 5K means 1500 seconds ÷ 5 km = 300 seconds per kilometer (5:00/km). This calculator handles the math for you and shows pace per kilometer, pace per mile, and equivalent speed.
What pace do I need for a sub-2-hour half marathon?
To break 2 hours in a half marathon (21.1 km), you need to hold a pace of 5:41/km or 9:09/mile. Enter 1:59:59 as your finish time above with 'Half Marathon' selected to verify.
What pace do I need for a sub-4-hour marathon?
A sub-4-hour marathon requires a pace of 5:41/km or 9:09/mile. Select 'Marathon', switch to the 'Finish Time → Pace' tab, and enter 3:59:59.
What is a good 5K pace for a beginner?
Beginner runners typically finish a 5K between 28 and 38 minutes, which is a pace of roughly 5:36/km to 7:36/km (9:00/mi to 12:15/mi). Intermediate runners often target 22–28 minutes.
How accurate is this pace calculator?
The math is exact — pace is simply finish time divided by distance. Real-world results depend on course elevation, weather, fueling, and your fitness on race day. Use the calculated pace as your target split and adjust based on conditions.