Pace versus speed
Pace is the time needed to cover one unit of distance, such as minutes per kilometre. Speed is distance per unit of time. A lower pace number represents faster running, while a higher speed number represents faster running.
Time divided by distance
Hours, minutes, and seconds are combined into total time. Dividing by distance gives pace; dividing distance by elapsed hours gives speed. Race projections multiply the same pace by each race distance, with no adjustment for endurance or fatigue.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter a positive distance in kilometres or miles.
- 2Enter elapsed hours, minutes, and seconds.
- 3Calculate pace in both unit systems and review the same-pace race times.
Understanding your result
A 5:00 min/km pace means five minutes per kilometre, not 5 km/h. Same-pace projections are mathematical comparisons: sustaining a short-run pace for a marathon requires a different level of endurance.
Assumptions & limitations
- Average pace hides hills, intervals, stops, and variation within the run.
- Race projections do not account for training, weather, course conditions, or fatigue.
Frequently asked questions
What does 5:30 pace mean?+
It means five minutes and thirty seconds per kilometre or mile, depending on the displayed unit. It is not 5.30 decimal minutes.
Should I enter moving time or elapsed time?+
Use moving time for the pace while moving, or elapsed time for the overall result including stops. Race results generally use elapsed timing conventions.
Why is min/mile larger than min/km?+
A mile is longer than a kilometre, so covering one mile takes more time at the same speed. One mile equals 1.609344 km.
Does the marathon projection predict my race result?+
No. It only extends the same average pace to 42.195 km. It does not estimate whether you can sustain that pace.
