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Pace Calculator Calculate running pace, finish time, or distance for training and race planning.

Pace Calculator illustration
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Pace Calculator

Calculate running pace, finish time, or distance for training and race planning.

1

Choose Calculation

Select whether to calculate pace, finish time, or distance.

2

Enter Known Values

Input distance and time, or pace and one other value.

3

View Results

See pace in min/km and min/mile, plus speed in km/h and mph.

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What Is Pace Calculator?

The Pace Calculator is a running tool that performs three types of calculations: finding your pace from a distance and time, predicting finish time from a distance and pace, or calculating distance from a pace and time. It supports both metric (km) and imperial (mile) units and includes quick-select buttons for common race distances (5K, 10K, half marathon, full marathon). Pace is displayed in minutes per kilometer and minutes per mile, along with speed conversions. Whether you're training for your first 5K or planning a marathon strategy, this calculator helps you set realistic targets.

Why Use Pace Calculator?

  • Three calculation modes: pace, finish time, and distance
  • Quick-select buttons for common race distances (5K, 10K, half, full marathon)
  • Displays pace in both min/km and min/mile with speed conversions
  • Essential for race planning and training target setting

Common Use Cases

Race Planning

Calculate target pace for a goal finish time in any race distance.

Training Zones

Determine pace ranges for easy runs, tempo runs, and intervals.

Progress Tracking

Compare pace across different training sessions and distances.

Race Prediction

Estimate finish time for longer races based on shorter race performance.

Technical Guide

Pace calculations use fundamental relationships: Pace = Time / Distance, Time = Pace × Distance, Distance = Time / Pace. Pace is typically expressed in minutes per unit distance (min/km or min/mi). Speed conversions: km/h = 3600 / (pace in sec/km), mph = 3600 / (pace in sec/mi). The conversion between km and mile paces uses the factor 1.60934 km/mi. For race prediction across distances, more advanced models like the Riegel formula (T2 = T1 × (D2/D1)^1.06) can be used, though this calculator focuses on direct pace/time/distance relationships.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    For marathon pacing, aim for even or slightly negative splits (faster second half)
  • 2
    Easy runs should typically be 1-2 minutes slower per km than race pace
  • 3
    Pace slows naturally with longer distances — a 5K pace is faster than marathon pace
  • 4
    Account for elevation, heat, and wind when planning race pace targets

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q What is a good running pace?
It varies greatly by fitness level. Average recreational runners are 5:30-7:00 min/km (9:00-11:00 min/mi). Elite marathoners run under 3:00 min/km (4:50 min/mi).
Q How do I convert min/km to min/mile?
Multiply min/km pace by 1.60934. For example, 5:00/km ≈ 8:03/mi.
Q What pace do I need for a sub-4-hour marathon?
You need approximately 5:41/km (9:09/mi) to finish a marathon in under 4 hours.
Q Should I run at the same pace for all distances?
No, shorter races are faster. Your 5K pace will be significantly faster than your marathon pace. A common rule: marathon pace is typically 15-20% slower than 5K pace.
Q How does elevation affect pace?
A general guideline is to add 12-15 seconds per km for every 100m of elevation gain, though this varies with fitness and gradient.

About This Tool

Pace Calculator is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.