Marathon Pace Chart
Use this marathon pace chart to find the pace you’ll need to hit your target finish time over 42.2km (26.2 miles). Whether you’re training for your first marathon or chasing a new PB, this page shows pace per kilometre and per mile in a clear, easy-to-read format.
If you’d rather calculate your own numbers, you can also use our Race Pace Calculator.
Marathon Pace Chart (Pace per KM & Mile)
| Marathon Finish Time | Pace per KM | Pace per Mile |
|---|---|---|
| 2:15:00 | 3:12 /km | 5:09 /mile |
| 2:30:00 | 3:33 /km | 5:43 /mile |
| 2:45:00 | 3:55 /km | 6:19 /mile |
| 3:00:00 | 4:16 /km | 6:52 /mile |
| 3:15:00 | 4:37 /km | 7:26 /mile |
| 3:30:00 | 4:59 /km | 8:01 /mile |
| 3:45:00 | 5:20 /km | 8:35 /mile |
| 4:00:00 | 5:41 /km | 9:10 /mile |
| 4:15:00 | 6:02 /km | 9:44 /mile |
| 4:30:00 | 6:24 /km | 10:19 /mile |
| 4:45:00 | 6:45 /km | 10:53 /mile |
| 5:00:00 | 7:07 /km | 11:29 /mile |
| 5:15:00 | 7:28 /km | 12:04 /mile |
| 5:30:00 | 7:49 /km | 12:35 /mile |
| 5:45:00 | 8:11 /km | 13:10 /mile |
| 6:00:00 | 8:31 /km | 13:42 /mile |
All paces are shown as minutes per kilometre and minutes per mile.
How to Use This Marathon Pace Chart
This table shows:
- Common Marathon target finish times
- The required pace per kilometre
- The equivalent pace per mile
To use it:
- Find your goal finish time
- Read across the row
- Use that pace as your guide for race day and training
Popular Marathon Time Goals (Quick Guide)
- Sub-3 hours → 4:16 min/km | 6:52 min/mile
- Sub-3:30 → 4:59 min/km | 8:01 min/mile
- Sub-4 hours → 5:41 min/km | 9:10 min/mile
- Sub-4:30 → 6:24 min/km | 10:19 min/mile
These are common goals across UK road marathons.
What’s a Good Marathon Pace?
A “good” marathon pace depends on your experience, training volume and ability to fuel effectively.
As a general guide:
- First-time marathoners: 6:00–7:00 min/km
- Regular runners: 5:15–6:15 min/km
- Experienced runners: sub-5:00 min/km
Marathon pace should feel comfortable early and controlled – if it feels hard in the first 10km, it’s likely too fast.
Marathon Pacing Strategy
The marathon is all about discipline.
A simple pacing approach:
- KM 1–10: Run relaxed, stay below effort
- KM 11–30: Lock into rhythm and fuel consistently
- KM 31–40: Maintain effort, not pace
- Final 2km: Empty the tank if you can
The most common marathon mistake is running the first half too fast.
Using Marathon Pace in Training
Marathon pace is commonly used to guide:
- Long runs with marathon-pace segments
- Progression runs
- Race-specific workouts late in a training block
Understanding this pace helps runners train smarter and arrive on the start line confident.
Pace per KM vs Pace per Mile
UK marathons are measured in kilometres, but many runners still think in miles. This pace chart includes both so you can:
- Train using your preferred unit
- Follow race signage without confusion
- Compare different training plans accurately
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I aim for even splits in a marathon?
Yes. Even or slightly negative splits give the best chance of a strong finish.
How much slower is marathon pace than half marathon pace?
For most runners, marathon pace is around 15–30 seconds per km slower than half marathon pace.
Is this chart suitable for first-time marathon runners?
Absolutely. It’s especially useful for setting realistic pacing expectations.
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