Marathon Pace Chart (26.2 Mile Splits)

Run your best marathon with the help of my full marathon pace chart.

This chart breaks down the 26.2-mile course into goal paces per mile, helping you plan splits, stay on track, and execute a smart pacing strategy for race day. Use it to guide your training and ensure you reach the finish line strong.

Not only is this tool practical but it's fun to use! 😊

marathon pace by finish time

Marathon Pace Chart (Mile Splits)

This marathon pace chart shows cumulative mile splits for 26.2 miles across running paces from 5:00 to 15:00 per mile, helping runners plan race pacing and training strategies.

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

Tip: Click your goal pace to highlight your splits.

Train for your marathon goal time

Marathon Goal Time	Average Race Pace	Training Plan
Sub 3:30 Marathon	8:00 per mile	View Sub-3:30 Plan
Sub 3:45 Marathon	8:35 per mile	View Sub 3:45 Plan
Sub 4:00 Marathon	9:09 per mile	View Sub-4 Hour Plan
Sub 4:15 Marathon	9:43 per mile	View Sub 4:15 Plan
Sub 4:30 Marathon	10:18 per mile	View Sub-4:30 Plan
Sub 4:45 Marathon	10:52 per mile	View Sub-4:45 Plan
Sub 5:00 Marathon	11:27 per mile	View Sub-5 Hour Plan

How to Use the Marathon Pace Chart

Training with a marathon pace chart can make the difference between finishing strong and hitting the wall. Here’s how to get the most out of your chart:

1. Identify Your Goal Pace: Decide on your target finish time for the marathon. Use the chart to find the corresponding pace per mile (or kilometer) that will help you hit that goal.
2. Locate Your Pace Row:  The chart is organized with pace per mile in the first column. Scroll through the rows to find your goal pace. If you’re using our interactive calculator above, your pace row will highlight automatically.
3. Read Across for Split Times: Each column represents a mile of the marathon. Follow your row across to see your cumulative split times at each mile mark. This helps you maintain a steady pace and plan fueling, hydration, and mental checkpoints.
4. Use During Training Runs: Reference your pace chart for long runs, tempo runs, and intervals. Practice running at your goal pace so your body becomes familiar with the effort needed for race day.
5. Adjust as Needed:  If you improve your fitness or change your goal finish time, update your target pace and check the chart again. Remember, your goal pace is a guide — conditions like weather or terrain may require minor adjustments on race day.
6. Combine With Your Training Plan: Use this pace chart alongside a structured marathon training plan for best results. Following your recommended plan while monitoring your splits will maximize your chances of hitting your target time.

marathon pace calculator

See our full marathon pace calculator here to help you better hit your pacing goals! 

faqs

1. What pace is needed for a 4-hour marathon?

To finish a marathon in 4 hours, you need to maintain an average pace of 9:09 per mile (5:41 per km). Use our marathon pace chart or calculator to see your cumulative split times for each mile.

Sub-4 Hour Training Plan here.

2. How do I calculate marathon pace?

Marathon pace is your average speed needed to hit your goal finish time. To calculate manually:

 Convert your goal time into total minutes or seconds. Divide by 26.2 miles (or 42.2 km). The result is your target pace per mile (or km).
For example, a 4-hour marathon = 240 minutes ÷ 26.2 ≈ 9:09 per mile. 

3. What is a good marathon pace?

A “good” marathon pace depends on your experience and goal. 

For recreational runners:

Beginners: 10:00–12:00 per mile (6:12–7:27 per km) 

Intermediate: 8:00–10:00 per mile (4:58–6:12 per km)

Advanced: Sub-8:00 per mile (faster than 4:58 per km)
Always train at a pace you can sustain comfortably for long runs before race day

4. How can I use a pace chart for training?

Use a pace chart to plan your long runs, tempo runs, and race-day strategy. Track your splits to stay on target and adjust based on terrain, weather, or fatigue. Practicing at your goal pace helps your body adapt to the effort needed for the marathon.

5. Can I calculate pace for half or other distances?

Yes! You can use the same formula: divide your goal time by the distance in miles or kilometers. Our interactive pace calculator can do this automatically for 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon distances.

Other pacing resources:

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