How Far is a 6K?

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The 6k distance is not a normal distance, in a world of 5k’s, 10k’s, half marathons, marathons, and more. So how far is a 6k exactly, and how many miles are in a 6k? Find out the answer to these and other frequently asked questions about the 6k distance, including:

How Far is a 6K?
How Many Miles are in a 6K?
How is a 6K Different from Other Distances?
How Many Laps is a 6K?
How Long Does it Take to Train for a 6K?
How to Train for a 6K
12 Week Training Calendar
Recommended Gear for a 6K
How Long Does it Take to Run a 6K?
Why Should You Consider Running a 6K
Other Common Running Distances

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!

Table of Contents

How Far is a 6K?

A 6k covers a distance of 6 kilometers, which is equivalent to approximately 3.73 miles. To convert kilometers to miles, simply take your number of miles divided by 1.609 to get the kilometers equivalent.

How is a 6K Different from Other Distances?

This distance is shorter than a 10k race but longer than a 5k race.

5K = 3.1 miles
10K = 6.2 miles

How Many Laps is a 6K?

On an Olympic sized track (400 meters), 6K = 15 laps
On an indoor track (200 meters), 6K = 30 laps

How Long Does it Take to Train for a 6K?

Allow for 8 – 12 weeks to train to run a 6k 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 6K

To successfully train to run a 6k distance, you need to first establish a running base. Start by running 1 mile once a week for a month. Gradually work your way up to running 2 miles once a week, plus one additional shorter run. Then progress to weekly long run of 3 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 6k distance.

A 6k training schedule should include 2 -3 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 graphic is a perfect example of how to train for running a 6k.

Note that this plan can vary depending on your current fitness level and running experience. It is also important to cross train while you train for a 6k. 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 6K

6K 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 6K?

Many factors can affect this, such as age, fitness level, experience, and environmental factors. On average, expect to take between 30 – 45 minutes to run a 6k.

Use this pacing tool to estimate how long it will take you to run a 6k.

Why Should You Run a 6K?

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 6k, how many miles are in a 6k, 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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How Far is a 6K?

How Far is a 6K?