Pace, splits & training plan for a sub 2:30 half marathon.
To run a sub 2:30 half marathon, you need to maintain a pace of 7:07/km (11:27/mi).
Pace /km
7:07
min/km
Pace /mile
11:27
min/mi
Speed
8.4
km/h
Speed
5.2
mph
| KM | Cumulative Time |
|---|---|
| 1 | 7:07 |
| 2 | 14:13 |
| 3 | 21:20 |
| 4 | 28:26 |
| 5 | 35:33 |
| 6 | 42:40 |
| 7 | 49:46 |
| 8 | 56:53 |
| 9 | 1:03:59 |
| 10 | 1:11:06 |
| 11 | 1:18:12 |
| 12 | 1:25:19 |
| 13 | 1:32:26 |
| 14 | 1:39:32 |
| 15 | 1:46:39 |
| 16 | 1:53:45 |
| 17 | 2:00:52 |
| 18 | 2:07:59 |
| 19 | 2:15:05 |
| 20 | 2:22:12 |
| 21 | 2:29:18 |
| 21.0975 | 2:30:00 |
| Mile | Cumulative Time |
|---|---|
| 1 | 11:27 |
| 2 | 22:53 |
| 3 | 34:20 |
| 4 | 45:46 |
| 5 | 57:13 |
| 6 | 1:08:39 |
| 7 | 1:20:06 |
| 8 | 1:31:32 |
| 9 | 1:42:59 |
| 10 | 1:54:25 |
| 11 | 2:05:52 |
| 12 | 2:17:18 |
| 13 | 2:28:45 |
| 13.11 | 2:30:00 |
At 7:06/km, you're running at a pace that many would describe as a comfortable jog. The pace itself isn't the challenge — it's the duration. Running for two and a half hours requires building up your endurance gradually. This is a great first-time half marathon target.
For a 2:30 half marathon, focus on building the ability to run for 2.5 hours rather than worrying about speed. Run three times per week: two easy runs of 30–40 minutes and one long run that you gradually extend to 16–18 km.
There's no need for dedicated speed work at this stage — just running consistently will improve your pace naturally. If you want to add variety, include a gentle fartlek in one of your easy runs (pick up the pace slightly for lampposts or 1-minute bursts).
Allow 10–12 weeks and be patient with your long run progression. Increase it by no more than 1–2 km per week. Practice eating and drinking during your long runs — you'll need to fuel during 2.5 hours of running. A gel or energy chew every 45 minutes is a good starting point.
Pace /km
Pace /mile
Speed
Speed