Running Pace Calculator — Pace, Speed & Race Predictions

Calculate running pace, speed and predicted race times for 5K, 10K, half-marathon and marathon.

About this calculator

A running pace calculator finds your average pace per kilometre (or per mile), and predicts your finish time for any race distance based on a known time at another distance. The Pete Riegel formula has been the gold standard for race time prediction since 1977 and is used by runners worldwide.

Knowing your pace lets you train deliberately at specific intensities — easy runs at 60% of 5K pace, threshold runs at 88%, and intervals at 95%+. Race day pacing is then a matter of executing the right effort, not just running as hard as possible from the start.

Formula

T_2 = T_1 \times \left(\frac{D_2}{D_1}\right)^{1.06}

  • T_1 — Known race time
  • D_1 — Known race distance
  • T_2 — Predicted time for new distance D_2
  • 1.06 — Riegel's endurance fatigue exponent

Worked example

Inputs: You ran a 5 km race in 24:00. Predict your marathon time.

  1. T_1 = 1,440 s, D_1 = 5 km, D_2 = 42.195 km
  2. (42.195 ÷ 5)^1.06 = 8.44^1.06 = 9.55
  3. T_2 = 1,440 × 9.55 = 13,752 s = 3 h 49 m 12 s
  4. Realistic only if you actually train for marathon distance — Riegel assumes equivalent endurance training

Frequently asked questions

Why is my actual marathon time slower than the prediction?

Riegel's formula assumes you have done equivalent training for both distances. Most runners who try to predict a marathon time from a 5K result have done plenty of 5K work but not enough long runs. Reality is usually 10–20 minutes slower than the prediction unless you have logged 4–6 months of 50+ km weekly mileage.

What is a good pace for a beginner?

For a new runner, the right pace is one you can sustain for 30–60 minutes while maintaining a conversation. This is typically 6:30–8:00 per km for most adults. Forget your watch in the first 6 weeks — build the habit of running consistently before worrying about speed.

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