Some people can zoom past the rest like a gust of wind across the finish line, while others aren’t as fast on their feet. What feels fast for one person might not feel so fast for someone else. I’m curious about the average human running speed, and how I measure up. Thinking about this made me dart around my neighborhood at full power.
Marathoners often try to beat their previous times and set a faster and more efficient pace. Several factors influence running speed and performance, including fitness level, training history, and running experience. Your pace is only a part of the picture. Let’s look at the average running speed for various distances.
What is the average human running speed?
There isn’t really an exact average running speed, and it depends on numerous factors, including the distance traveled. Based on data by Strava, the average running speed in 2024 for men was 6:14min/km and 7:01min/km for women.
5K
According to Mottiv, the average finishing time for a 5K (3.1 miles) is between 25 and 28 minutes. When including the wider population and beginners who don’t have much experience running, the average 5K finish time is 33 minutes. If you look specifically at men and women within that average, men finished around 29 minutes, and women with an average of 38 minutes. Additional data also reveals an overall average of 33 minutes.
10K
Data shows the average run time for a 10K is 55 minutes for men and 1 hour and 6 minutes for women.
Half marathon
The half marathon is 21.2km or 13.1 miles, which requires more commitment and endurance than shorter distances. The average half marathon finish time is 2:02:43, with an average pace of 9:22min/mile. Specifically for men, the average finish time is around 1:55:26.
Marathon
A marathon is 26.2 miles or 42.2km, and it’s a big accomplishment no matter your finishing time. Running a marathon can definitely push your physical limits, so you should be proud if you cross that finish line. The average marathon time is 4:26:33. In the UK, the average marathon time for men is 4:23:27 and 5:00:39 for women.
In conclusion
You shouldn’t feel disheartened if you’re slower than average because you can always improve, and running speed isn’t everything. Regardless of your pace, you should be proud that you’re improving and prioritizing your fitness and getting the benefits of running that come along with it.
