Half Marathon Pace Chart

What is a Pace Chart for a Half Marathon?

A half marathon pace chart is one of the most effective tools for runners preparing for the 13.1-mile (21.1 km) distance. It translates your target finish time into clear kilometre or mile splits, giving you a structured plan to follow in both training and racing. Instead of running by feel alone, you can track progress against defined checkpoints and stay consistent from start to finish.

Most pace charts cover common finish times ranging from around 1:30 through to 3:00 hours, with split times for every mile and kilometre. For example, to complete a half marathon in 2 hours, you need to average 5:41 per kilometre (9:09 per mile). A pace chart shows those targets in detail, making it easier to hold steady and avoid drifting off pace.

By breaking a big goal into manageable splits, a half marathon pace chart helps you set intermediate milestones, maintain focus, and manage effort throughout the race.

How to Use a Pace Chart for a Half Marathon?

A half marathon pace chart does more than tell you your splits—it helps you plan, execute, and adjust your strategy. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Set a realistic goal: Choose a finish time based on recent training or shorter race performances.
2. Study the chart: Familiarise yourself with the splits for your target pace so you know what to expect every mile or kilometre.
3. Plan your race: Break the distance into smaller chunks—such as 5K sections—and use the splits to guide effort.
4. Track progress: Compare your actual splits to the chart during the race. Adjust steadily if you’re off-pace, instead of panicking or surging.
5. Stay mentally focused: Use the chart as motivation. Hitting each split becomes a mini-goal that keeps you engaged.
6. Finish with intent: In the final few kilometres or miles, consult the chart and push harder if you’ve still got energy in the tank.

To create your own pacing tables, try our Pace Calculator or Split Time Calculator. Both tools generate personalised pacing guides for training and race day.

How to Pace Yourself in a Half Marathon?

The half marathon demands a balance of endurance and speed. Pacing it well can make the difference between a breakthrough run and a painful fade. Here are strategies that work:

1. Set a clear goal time: Use your training data or a recent 10K/15K result to set a realistic target pace.
2. Know the course: Study the elevation and terrain. Conserve energy on climbs and keep rhythm on flats or downhills.
3. Start steady: Avoid charging out too fast. Begin slightly under goal pace, then settle into rhythm by mile 2–3 (km 3–5).
4. Use the pace chart: Refer back to your splits at each marker. Small adjustments early prevent big struggles later.
5. Listen to your body: Keep your effort sustainable. If breathing is too heavy too soon, ease off. If you feel strong late on, pick it up.
6. Run a negative split: Aim to run the second half a touch quicker than the first. This strategy often leads to PBs and stronger finishes.
7. Stay mentally strong: Break the race into 5K blocks or focus on reaching the 10-mile point before pushing harder.
8. Finish strong: In the final 1–2 miles (or last 2–3 km), dig deep and push to the line. Use the chart as proof you’re capable of hitting your goal.

Practise pacing strategies in your long runs and tune-up races. With experience and a reliable pace chart, you’ll develop the rhythm and confidence needed to perform at your best in the half marathon.