How fast do you run a 5k?

Question

I'm about to participate in my first 5k race. I am quite overweight, but I'm running about 12 minute miles. Just wondering how that stacks up to you.

Answer 1

For your first 5k, and being overweight, 12 minute miles are pretty good. but you shouldn't compare yourself to other people. there's always going to be people who are faster than you and people who are slower than you, so just have fun & as long as you're happy it's all good. Good luck on your 5k, it'll be fun. [ :

Answer 2

I ran a 17:14 this past fall and when I started 4 yrs ago as a Freshman I ran in the high 18's so not a ton of improvement.  But we had a kid on our cross country team who had never run before (he was just staying in shape for basketball) that started off the season running about 35 minute 5k's and by the end of the season he shaved off about ten minutes and was consistently running in the mid 20's. So the slower your times the easier it is to improve

Answer 3

That's awesome, First races, I usually get really nervous and stuff, but after, when you finish it's like wow i finished, i feel so good, and you feel both energetic and happy. :) Running 12 minute miles is pretty good for a person who is starting their first 5k. There will be more room for improvement as you run more and run and you become used to it and faster, and your love for running will grow and grow. Be proud, you can do it, you can finish this 5k. Anything is possible if you jsut believe in youself, the feeling of accomplishment goes a long way. Good Luck! :)  

Answer 4

my best 5k was 18:something i think. 12 minute miles are NOT bad for you. keep at it, running is good for you :)

Answer 5

Congratulations for running!  12 minute miles are great.  I did 11+ minute miles for the longest time.  I kept at it, and now I am down to 10 minute miles not being too hard (for < 5 miles total).  I think if I keep trying 9.5 minute miles are not far behind.  I am not a natural runner.  I started this latish in life to improve my fitness.

Congratulations on your 12 minute miles!!  Bravo!  Good for you.

Answer 6

I'm a freshman in high school and i run about 6:30 mile pace in a 5k, but i run a half marathon at about a 7:30 minute pace. It doesn't matter how fast you run, just that you are active and improving. At your state, I would say, don't overdo it, practice intensity instead of distance or speed (e.g. go really hard for 400 meters instead of really hard at 1600 meters). You'll begin to run a single digit minute pace fairly quickly. Hope you improve, and remember to keep steady training.