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Race time predictor

Estimate equivalent 5K/10K/half marathon/marathon times from one known result using a simple model. Useful for goal-setting and pacing.

Last updated/Feb 03, 2026, 02:17 PM

Tool

Inputs → outputs

This page is intentionally practical: get numbers first, then read the how-to.

Inputs

  • Known distance (5K/10K/HM/Marathon)
  • Known time (hh:mm:ss)
  • Fatigue factor (exponent) (optional)

Outputs

  • Predicted times table
  • Predicted paces (per km/mile)

Examples

10K in 50:00
Estimates equivalent half marathon and marathon times from a 10K result.
Half marathon in 1:55:00
Useful for sanity-checking a marathon goal pace before you commit to it.

Calculator

Race time predictor (Riegel model)

Start with one recent performance, then estimate equivalent 5K / 10K / half marathon / marathon times. Useful for goal-setting and workout planning.

Default 1.06. Higher = more slowdown as distance increases.

Known result

10K50:00

Predicted half

1:50:19

A good checkpoint for endurance readiness.

Predicted marathon

3:50:01

Assumes you train the endurance + fueling required.

Predicted equivalent race times
DistancePredicted timePace / kmPace / mile
5K23:594:487:43
10K50:005:008:03
Half marathon1:50:195:148:25
Marathon3:50:015:278:46

This is a simplified model. It does not account for heat, hills, fueling, or whether you’ve trained the durability needed for longer races. Use it for planning — then execute by effort.

Assumptions

What this tool assumes

  • Your known result reflects current fitness (recent and executed well).
  • Conditions and course difficulty are broadly comparable across distances.

Limitations

What can break it

  • Longer races require durability + fueling; many runners slow more than the model predicts without specific training.
  • Does not adjust for heat, hills, wind, altitude, or course difficulty.

Related

Use this with a plan

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FAQs

What is the fatigue factor (exponent)?

It controls how much the model expects you to slow as distance increases. Higher values predict more slowdown; the default is a common baseline.

Is this accurate for first-time marathoners?

Treat it as a rough estimate. First marathons are often limited by durability and fueling, not raw speed — execute a plan and practice fueling.

How should I use this for pacing?

Use it to set a realistic goal range, then pace by effort on race day and adjust for heat/hills. Don’t chase perfect splits in bad conditions.

Keep going