See your estimated marathon finish time based on average pace per mile.
A marathon is 26.2 miles and the ultimate distance challenge for many runners. This pace chart shows estimated finish times based on your average pace per mile. Whether you are training for your first marathon or chasing a Boston qualifying time, use this chart to set a realistic goal and plan your pacing strategy.
A good marathon pace varies widely. First-time marathoners often finish between 4:00 and 5:00 hours (9:10 to 11:27 per mile). Experienced runners aim for 3:00 to 3:45, and elite runners finish under 2:30. Choose a goal that matches your longest training runs and recent race times.
To finish a marathon in 4 hours, you need to average about 9:09 per mile. This is a very popular goal and requires disciplined pacing, especially in the second half of the race when fatigue sets in.
Find your goal pace per mile on the left and read across to see the estimated finish time. Or find a target finish time and work backwards to see the pace per mile required. Use this to plan your long runs, marathon-pace workouts, and race-day splits.
The wall typically hits around miles 18 to 22 when your body runs low on stored glycogen. Proper pacing, nutrition during the race, and adequate long-run training can help you avoid or push through the wall. Starting at a conservative pace is one of the best ways to prevent hitting it.