How Far is a 10K?

The 10K distance is gaining in popularity among runners.  It is the “goldilocks of running distances – not too long, not too short, perfectly in the middle of other common running distances like the shorter 5k, and the longer half and full marathons.  The 10k is a perfect goal for new and intermediate runners, and the perfect “maintaining” distance for longer distance runners.  So how far is a 10K exactly, and also how far is a 10k in miles?

 

Disclosure: Below are some affiliate links-these are all products I highly recommend. I won’t make any recommendations on this page that I haven’t tested or personally used!  Enjoy this guide to  learning just how far is a 10K!

 

 

How Far is a 10K?

 

A 10K covers a distance of 10 kilometers, which is equivalent to approximately 6.2 miles. To convert kilometers to miles, simply take your number of miles divided by 1.609 to get the kilometers equivalent. You can also use this handy converter.

 

Below are answers to other common questions about the 10K distance:

 

 

How Is A 10K Different From Other Distances?

 

The 10K distance is longer than a 5k distance, but shorter than 15K’s, Half Marathons, and Full Marathons.

• 5K = 3.1 miles
• 10K = 6.2 miles
• 15K = 9.3 miles
• Half Marathon = 13.1 miles
• Marathon = 26.2 miles

 

CHECK OUT: How far is a 6K?

 

 

How Many Laps Is A 10K?

 

On an Olympic sized track (400 meters), 10K = 25 laps.

 

 

How Long Does It Take To Train For A 10K?

 

Allow for 8 – 12 weeks to train to run a 10k distance, depending on your fitness level, base running foundation, age, and experience.  Keep reading below for a sample 12 week training calendar.

 

 

How To Train For A 10K

 

To successfully train to run a 10k distance, you need to first establish a running base.  For example, start by running 1  and 2 mile training runs twice a week for a month.  Then gradually work your way up to running a shorter distance once a week, plus one additional long run.  Slowly progress in intentional increments to weekly long runs of 4, 5 and 6 miles, plus one additional shorter run, and so on. The training calendar below demonstrates how to gradually and incrementally work your way up to running a 10k distance in 12 weeks.

 

 

 

*Not sure where to start with your 10k training plan? Want professional coaching and support to help develop your own INDIVIDUALIZED training calendar like the one you see above?  Let me help you create your OWN plan for success with tailored cross training, incremental long runs, and weekly practice runs built in that work for YOU!  I’ll assess where you are today, and build you a plan to get you where you need to be!  Get started HERE!

 

 

A 10k training schedule should include at least 2 weekly training runs, with one of those runs being your weekly “long” run.  It is also important to build in at least 1 rest day a week, and 2 – 3 cross training days.  The above calendar is a perfect example of how to train for running a 10k.

 

Note that this plan can vary depending on your current fitness level and running experience.  It is also important to cross train while you prepare for a 10k.  Cross training should be completed 2 – 3 times a week, and can include indoor cycling, mountain or road biking, Pilates/yoga, hiking, kayaking, weight lifting, HIIT workouts, and any other physical activity you enjoy that works other muscle groups.

 

CHECK OUT: 16 Week Half Marathon Training Plan for Beginners

 

 

Recommended Gear For A 10K

 

10K Gear Quick Links

 

• Best Road Running Shoes – Brooks Glycerins
• Best Trail Running Shoes – HOKA One One Speedgoats
• Best Running Socks – Hilly Twin Skins
• Best Insulated Running Thermos – HydroFlask 
• Best Hydration Vest with Water Bladder – Camelbak Hydration Vest
• Best Transport System – Camelback Hydration Vest (above) or Hydration Belt
• Favorite Wool Running Shorts (warm weather) – Icebreaker Comets
• Favorite Running Leggings (cold weather) – Fleece Lined Leggings
• Favorite Pocketed Running Shorts 
• Favorite Merino Wool Icebreaker Tank Top (warm weather)
• Favorite Merino Wool Long Sleeve Base Layer Top (cold weather)
• Best Cold Weather Running Jacket
• Best Ultra-Lightweight Fully Waterproof and Wind Resistant Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium II
• Eye Protection: Hat and Sunglasses

 

Want all this beginner running gear in a handy checklist? Here you go!

 

 

How Long Does It Take To Run A 10K?

 

Many factors can affect this, such as age, fitness level, experience, and environmental factors.  On average, expect to take between 48 – 72 minutes to run a 10k.

Use this pacing tool to estimate how long it will take you to run a 10k.

 

 

Why Should You Run A 10K?

 

Running, no matter what the distance, is beneficial for you in so many ways.  It promotes healthy weight, builds strong bones, improves mood, strengthens muscles, and is one of the best things you can do to prevent cardiovascular disease, as this national study demonstrates.

 

CHECK OUT: The 13 Best Running Goals for Beginners

 

 

What Are Other Common Running Distances?

 

Other common running distances include 5K’s, 10K’s, 15K’s, half marathons, marathons, 50K’s, and 100K’s.

 

CHECK OUT: How many miles is a marathon, half marathon, 15K, 10K, 5K, and Ultra?

 

Now that you know how far is a 10k, how many miles are in a 10k, and other common questions, you are ready to take your running journey to the next step!  Check out these related running resources!

 

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