5K Pace Calculator
Convert a 5K finish time into pace per mile and per kilometer, plus estimated splits.
Tip: Most runners start between 20–35 minutes for a 5K. Adjust to your goal.
Kilometer Splits
- KM 1: 5:00
- KM 2: 10:00
- KM 3: 15:00
- KM 4: 20:00
- KM 5: 25:00
Mile Splits
- Mile 1: 8:03
- Mile 2: 16:06
- Mile 3: 24:08
- Finish: 25:00
5K pace reference
| Finish time | Pace /km | Pace /mile |
|---|---|---|
| 20:00 | 4:00 | 6:26 |
| 25:00 | 5:00 | 8:03 |
| 30:00 | 6:00 | 9:39 |
| 35:00 | 7:00 | 11:16 |
| 40:00 | 8:00 | 12:52 |
How we calculate this
Pace = time ÷ distance; time = pace × distance.
We calculate with exact distances: 5,000 m, 10,000 m, 21,097.5 m for a half marathon, and 42,195 m for a marathon. One mile is 1,609.344 m. Results are rounded to the nearest second only for display; calculations retain the full precision.
Sources: World Athletics: half marathon distance; World Athletics: marathon distance; NIST: unit conversion factors.
Using your results
Use the splits to plan your target pace. Allow for hills and aid-station stops when deciding how to distribute your effort. The reference table shows several finish-time goals so you can compare the pace each requires.
Common questions
What pace is needed for a 30:00 5k?
A 30:00 5k requires an average pace of 6:00 per kilometer or 9:39 per mile over 5 km. These displayed paces are rounded to the nearest second; the calculation assumes a constant average pace, including stops.
Why does my watch show a different pace?
Your watch divides time by its measured distance. GPS error and the path you take can differ from the official course distance used here.
Do the splits include stops?
Splits assume a constant average pace. If your target is an elapsed finish time, that average must include time spent stopped.