If you’re new to running, or thinking about signing up for your first race, the distances can feel confusing at first. Events are often advertised in kilometres, but training plans, treadmills, and everyday running conversations usually talk in miles.
So how many miles is a 5K? And how do other common race distances compare?
Below is a clear breakdown of the most popular running distances, what they mean in miles, and what to expect from each one.
How many miles is a 5K?
A 5K is 3.1 miles.
This distance is often recommended for beginners because it’s achievable without months of heavy training. Many runners can work up to covering 3.1 miles with a few runs per week over six to eight weeks, especially if they use a run/walk approach.
Because the race is relatively short, the 5K is also popular with experienced runners who want to focus on speed, pacing, and efficiency rather than endurance.
5K at a glance:
- Distance: 3.1 miles
- Track equivalent: 12.5 laps of a standard outdoor track
- Typical finish time range: ~20–45 minutes
How many miles is a 10K?
A 10K equals 6.2 miles.
The 10K is often seen as the bridge between shorter races and longer endurance events. It requires more stamina than a 5K, but it’s still short enough that many runners don’t need marathon-level training to complete it comfortably.
For many people, the 10K is their first experience of holding a steady pace for close to an hour.
10K at a glance:
- Distance: 6.2 miles
- Track equivalent: 25 laps
- Training focus: endurance with some speed work
How many miles is a half marathon?
A half marathon is 13.1 miles (21.1 kilometres).
This distance marks a significant step up. Unlike a 5K or even a 10K, most runners need dedicated training to complete a half marathon feeling strong. Weekly mileage increases, long runs become a key part of preparation, and fueling and recovery start to matter more.
The half marathon is often chosen by runners who want a meaningful challenge without committing to the time demands of a full marathon.
Half marathon at a glance:
- Distance: 13.1 miles
- Typical training length: 10–14 weeks
- Long run progression: usually up to 10–12 miles
How many miles is a marathon?
A marathon is 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometres).
This distance is considered a major endurance milestone. Marathon training requires consistency, patience, and a gradual buildup over several months. Long runs, recovery days, and fueling strategies all play an important role in preparing for race day.
While finishing a marathon is achievable for many runners, it’s not a distance to attempt without structured preparation.
Marathon at a glance:
- Distance: 26.2 miles
- Typical training length: 16–20 weeks
- Longest training runs: often 18–20 miles
How long is an ultramarathon?
An ultramarathon is any race longer than a marathon (26.2 miles).
Common ultramarathon distances include:
- 50K (31 miles)
- 50 miles
- 100K (62 miles)
- 100 miles
Many ultras are held on trails rather than roads, adding elevation, technical terrain, and navigation into the challenge. Training for ultras often focuses more on time-on-feet than pace.
What other race distances exist?
While less common, you may also see races at distances such as:
- 1 mile
- 4 miles
- 5 miles
- 8K (just under 5 miles)
- 15K (9.3 miles)
- 10 miles
These distances are often used for local events or as stepping stones between major race categories.
How far is one lap of a track?
A standard outdoor running track measures 400 metres per lap, which is just under a quarter mile.
An indoor track is typically 200 metres per lap.
Helpful conversions:
- 400 metres: 1 lap
- 800 metres: ~½ mile (2 laps)
- 1,600 metres: ~1 mile (4 laps)
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