Marathon Pace Chart (Kilometers)

Use this marathon pace chart in kilometers to quickly find your per-km pace for your target finish time. Whether you're aiming for a sub-3 marathon or just to finish strong, this chart makes pacing simple.

marathon finish time by pace

Marathon Goal Time	Average Pace Per KM
Sub 3:00 Marathon	4:16 per km
Sub 3:15 Marathon	4:37 per km
Sub 3:30 Marathon	4:59 per km
Sub 3:45 Marathon	5:20 per km
Sub 4:00 Marathon	5:41 per km
Sub 4:15 Marathon	6:02 per km
Sub 4:30 Marathon	6:24 per km
Sub 4:45 Marathon	6:45 per km
Sub 5:00 Marathon	7:07 per km
Sub 5:30 Marathon	7:49 per km
Sub 6:00 Marathon	8:32 per km

Marathon pace chart in Kilometers

Prefer miles? View the marathon pace chart miles version here.

ready to train for your marathon finish time goal?

Choose your marathon goal time and follow a structured training plan designed around your target pace per kilometer.

Prefer miles? See our marathon pace chart in miles here.

Marathon Goal Time	Average Race Pace	Training Plan
Sub 3:30 Marathon	4:59 per km	View Sub 3 Hour Plan
Sub 3:45 Marathon	5:20 per km	View Sub 3:45 Plan
Sub 4:00 Marathon	5:41 per km	View Sub 4 Hour Plan
Sub 4:15 Marathon	6:02 per km	View Sub 4:15 Plan
Sub 4:30 Marathon	6:24 per km	View Sub 4:30 Plan
Sub 4:45 Marathon	6:45 per km	View Sub 4:45 Plan
Sub 5:00 Marathon	7:07 per km	View Sub-5 Hour Plan

how to use this marathon pace chart (KM)

Using this marathon pace chart is simple. 

Step 1: Choose your goal time. If you aren't sure what your goal time should be, see this page on how to find your marathon goal pace. 

Find your target finish time in the left column (for example, sub 4:00).

Step 2: Identify your pace per kilometer. 

Use the average race pace to see exactly how fast you need to run each kilometer.

Step 3: Train at your goal pace

Practice this pace during long runs and workouts so it feels comfortable on race day.

Step 4: Follow a structured plan

Use a time-goal marathon training plan (like these ones) to build endurance, dial in pacing, and avoid race-day mistakes. You can also see my guide to choosing the best marathon training schedule here.

Marathon pace calculator

Use our full running pace calculator for custom distances here. 

What is a Good Marathon pace per kilometer?

A good marathon pace is very subjective to each runner, their fitness level and their goals. Here are some loose thoughts though for recreational runners:

• Beginner: 6:30–8:00 min/km
• Intermediate: 5:00–6:30 min/km
• Advanced: 3:00–5:00 min/km

Negative Split Strategy for Marathon Success

One of the most effective ways to run a strong marathon is by using a negative split—running the second half of the race slightly faster than the first. 

A negative split allows you to manage your energy efficiently, maintain better form late in the race, and maximize your performance when it matters most—the final stretch.

Here’s how to do it:

• Start the first half slightly slower
  Run the first half of your marathon about 5–10 seconds per kilometer slower than your goal pace. This helps you conserve energy early when it’s easy to go out too fast.
• Settle into your goal pace
  After the halfway point, gradually bring your pace down to your target pace as your body warms up and rhythm improves.
• Run the second half faster
  If you’ve paced correctly, you’ll have enough energy to slightly speed up in the final kilometers, passing other runners and finishing strong.
• Avoid early burnout
  Going out too fast is the most common marathon mistake. A controlled start prevents fatigue, reduces the risk of “hitting the wall,” and keeps your race consistent.

Related Marathon Training Resources

• Marathon training plans (+ km versions)
• Running pace chart guide - find all our pace charts and pacing tools here!
• Pacing tips
• What your long run pace should be

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