Every beginner runner has their own target time to complete a half marathon, which is a significant achievement at their stage. Typically, beginners focus more on finishing the race than worrying about average times. Their primary objective is to cross the finish line.
However, understanding what constitutes a good time for covering 21.1 kilometers becomes more relevant for more advanced runners. They might aim to beat personal records or achieve competitive times within their age group.
We have gathered average time data from sources like RunRepeat and Running Level to provide some benchmarks.
Average Pace for Running a Half Marathon
According to sources from Running Level, a generally good half-marathon time is 01:50:15.
This figure represents the average completion time for a half-marathon, considering participants of all ages and genders. Define your running level by comparing your half-marathon times to the data provided:
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite | WR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | 02:30:07 | 02:05:30 | 01:47:15 | 01:33:47 | 01:23:53 | 01:00:05 |
| 20 | 02:24:57 | 02:01:11 | 01:43:33 | 01:30:33 | 01:21:00 | 58:01 |
| 35 | 02:25:45 | 02:01:51 | 01:44:08 | 01:31:03 | 01:21:26 | 58:20 |
| 40 | 02:29:29 | 02:04:59 | 01:46:48 | 01:33:24 | 01:23:32 | 59:50 |
| 45 | 02:35:40 | 02:10:09 | 01:51:13 | 01:37:15 | 01:26:59 | 01:02:19 |
| 50 | 02:42:28 | 02:15:49 | 01:56:04 | 01:41:30 | 01:30:47 | 01:05:02 |
| 55 | 02:49:52 | 02:22:01 | 02:01:22 | 01:46:07 | 01:34:55 | 01:07:59 |
| 60 | 02:57:59 | 02:28:48 | 02:07:09 | 01:51:12 | 01:39:27 | 01:11:14 |
| 65 | 03:06:54 | 02:36:16 | 02:13:32 | 01:56:46 | 01:44:26 | 01:14:49 |
Data collected by RunRepeat provides average half-marathon times per country.
This comparison offers insights into how your performance stacks up against runners from various nations. Russia takes the lead in the table with an impressive average time of 1:45:11 securing the top position.
Belgium follows closely in second place with 1:48:01, while Spain secures the third spot with an average time of 1:50:20
Half Marathon World Record for Men
According to World Athletics, the world record for the half marathon for men is an astonishing 57 minutes and 31 seconds.
This record was set by Jacob Kiplimo from Uganda during the Lisbon Half Marathon in Portugal on November 21, 2021. Kiplimo achieved an average running pace of 4 minutes and 23 seconds per mile over the 13.1-mile course.
Half Marathon World Record for Women
The world record for the half marathon for women is an impressive 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 52 seconds, set by Ethiopian runner Letesenbet Gidey at the Valencia Half Marathon in Spain on October 24, 2021.
This extraordinary achievement means she averaged a blazing pace of 4 minutes and 48 seconds per mile over the 13.1-mile course.
Factors Affecting Average Pace
From our experience, even if you are new to running at 30-35, you can still improve your running times to an elite level. Our team member, Eldiava, is a prime example of this.
At 35, Eldiava accomplished a remarkable feat, achieving a half-marathon time of 01:13:03. This achievement is a testament to the potential for significant improvement, even later.
Age:
Once runners pass their prime time, there will be a slow decline of form, and they will keep running at late ages. The most affected reason is “Sarcopenia,” the loss of muscle mass that reduces strength and metabolic capacity.
Gender:
Regarding sex differences in running performance, male runners generally outperform female runners. Men typically possess lean body mass and a higher percentage of fast-twitch muscle fibers.
These characteristics contribute to more incredible speed and endurance, affording male runners a competitive advantage in long-distance events.
