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Running Pace Calculator

Calculate running pace per km and per mile from your distance and time. Convert between pace and speed.

Last reviewed: 18 June 2025Source: NHS — Health A-Z
Running Pace Calculator · USHealth & Fitness

Rates & sources

Population-average body composition metrics. Always consult a qualified clinician before making health decisions.

Source: NHS — Health A-Z — figures refreshed at the start of each tax year.

When to use this calculator

  • Before setting a new health goal or checking whether a plan is realistic.
  • When you want to compare different assumptions without tracking them manually.
  • When you need a quick baseline before discussing the result with a professional.

A realistic US planning example

Use these sample inputs as a quick scenario test, then change one variable at a time to compare outcomes.

Distance (km)

5

Time (minutes)

28

After entering these figures, compare pace, {paceminpermile} min/mile and speed before deciding which scenario looks strongest.

How to read your results

Pace

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

{paceMinPerMile} min/mile

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

Speed

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

{speedMph} mph

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

Method & assumptionsAuthoritative sources

Enter the distance run and total time in minutes to calculate your pace per kilometre, pace per mile, and average speed. A pace of 5–6 min/km is a solid recreational running pace; elite marathon runners hold under 2:50 min/km. Use this alongside the calorie and heart rate calculators to build a complete picture of your training session.

Common mistakes

  • !Using optimistic assumptions without testing a more cautious scenario as well.
  • !Comparing outputs from different tools without checking that the inputs match.
  • !Treating the result as a final quote instead of a planning estimate.

What to do next

  • Try at least one more scenario so you can compare a realistic range instead of a single estimate.
  • Use the related calculators below to cross-check the decision from another angle.
  • Open one of the linked guides if you need more context before you act on the result.

Frequently asked

For recreational runners, 5–7 min/km (8–11 min/mile) is a solid base pace. For a 5K, under 25 minutes (5 min/km) is a common first target.

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