How Far is a 50K in Miles? Taking on the Ultramarathon
Looking to know the distance of a 50k in miles? The 50-kilometer race clocks in at 31.07 miles.
That’s an impressive distance, for sure. Even as someone who has run 12 marathons, 50Ks seem almost daunting.
Ultramarathons have grown increasingly popular in recent years, and they’re a great way to take your running up a notch. For many, 50k ultra marathons provide an exciting challenge and an unreal sense of accomplishment upon completing the race.
Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a 50k novice, this distance will test you.
How Far is a 50k Run?
A 50k run equals 31.07 miles, 50 kilometers, 5000 meters, or 164042 feet.
This distance would be the equivalent of running 125 times around the standard 400-meter outdoor track!
It’s an impressive feat that takes dedication and training to achieve success. For those looking for a new challenge in their running regimen, 50k races provide an incredible opportunity to push your physical and mental boundaries.
If you’re thinking of tackling a 50k run in the near future, know that it won’t be easy. But with dedication and focus (and a solid training plan), nothing will stop you from achieving your goal.
How Long Does it Take to Run a 50k?
The average 50K completion time for beginners is around 6 hours. However, this number can vary widely depending on the individual’s experience and training levels.
Some 50Ks are timed events, while others are based on distance completion. Those new to 50k runs should plan for at least 6-7 hours of running time.
What’s a Good Pace for a 50k?
When it comes to 50Ks, proper pacing techniques will help you reach the finish line.
A good pace for 50k runs will depend on your experience levels and training. It’s essential to have a realistic expectation of the time you’ll need to complete the run. No matter what, plan to take breaks and hydrate regularly throughout the race—your body will thank you later.
If you’re a 50K beginner, aim for an average pace of 11–13 minutes per mile. More experienced 50K runners may be able to maintain an average pace closer to 8–9 per mile pace.
The best way to gauge your 50k speed is by training thoroughly. You’ll also need to pay attention to how you feel throughout the race.
💡 Completing several marathons before running a 50k can help you learn to pace yourself appropriately.
How Does a 50k Compare to a Marathon?
While marathons clock in at 26.2 miles, 50ks are 31.07 miles— that’s an extra five miles!
Due to the extended distance, you can obviously expect a 50k race to take longer than a marathon.
Because of the intense length and difficulty, 50Ks, and other ultramarathons, generally require more careful training and preparation than a marathon.
It’s important to remember that 50ks are not easy races— they take dedication and determination to conquer. Before taking on this challenge, ensure you have the right gear, fueling technique, and support system.
How Far Should You Run Before a 50k?
Most 50k training plans suggest running at least one marathon before the 50k race day.
It’s also important to consistently train for a 50K by running anywhere from 20–40 miles weekly. This consistent run time will condition your body and mind to prepare you for the challenge of the 50k distance.
While weekly mileage is important, incorporating strength training and cross-training into your routine is also essential. This will help to build your aerobic capacity, core strength, and muscular endurance. All helpful in tackling 31 miles.
What Do I Need to Prepare for a 50k Race?
When training for a 50K race, you’ll need a few essentials.
1. Proper running gear
Running shoes, comfortable clothing, and a hat or sunglasses to protect you from the sun will help you stay strong through training and on race day. The standard things you need for any running regimen.
Note that some 50ks are on roads while others are trail races. So if you opt for a trail 50k, you’ll want to be sure you’ve got a quality pair of trail running shoes.
2. Fuel and hydration
It’s essential to check what fueling is available on the course and prepare accordingly. Many ultramarathons require you to supply your on-course fuel. This benefits you as you can choose whatever works best for your body.
A 50K will require more fuel than a marathon, so ensure you’re adequately hydrated and fueled throughout your training and race day.
3. Support
Having a good support system is key to success.
When you’re mentally exhausted on race day, having a friend or family member cheering you on can motivate and drive you to keep going.
Ready to take on 50k? You’ll cross the 50K finish line with proper preparation and unwavering dedication.
What Does a Good 50k Training Plan Include?
A high-quality training plan is mandatory if you’re serious about completing a 50K.
Hiring an experienced running coach who can create an individualized program that considers your experience, abilities, and goals is quite helpful.
A good 50K training program should include:
👉🏼 A variety of aerobic and strength-building activities.
These two kinds of workouts will help your body prepare for the extreme event of running 31 miles. Aerobic activities help your lungs and increase your stamina, while strength training ensures your musculoskeletal system can handle the stress of the 50k distance.
👉🏼 A periodization plan.
This type of training plan breaks your 50k training into smaller parts that you can focus on one at a time. This can help cut some of the anxiety out of 50k training.
If you’ve tackled a marathon in the past, you’ll be familiar with building up your base mileage and running a long run of at least 20 miles.
For your 50k training, you’ll want to hit a long run of at least 22 miles. This extra mileage is vital for getting your body to go further than the 26.2 miles of the marathon.
👉🏼 Realistic goals and expectations.
You’ll need to know how many miles per week you’ll need to log or the terrain you’ll need to learn to run on. This should be determined by looking at the terrain of your goal race.
👉🏼 Running long-distance runs or races before race day.
This can seriously help you prepare mentally and physically for the challenge ahead. Even though you don’t run the full 50k distance during these practice events, they’ll give you a sense of what it’s like to push yourself.
50k Road Race or Trail Race: What’s Best?
If you’re trying to determine what’s best for you, you’ll likely want to make a pros and cons list. Specific to your feelings, this list can help you settle on the best goal race.
Road Race Pros:
✅ You can use various roads, paths, and neighborhood sidewalks you’re already familiar with for training.
✅ The terrain is usually predictable, making it easier to plan recovery times. If you’ve run a road marathon, you’ll know what to expect from this type of 50k.
✅ There are likely more fueling stops and aid stations available along the way.
Road Race Cons:
❌ Traffic can be an issue; not every race can or will shut down the roads for such an event.
❌ Road races can be more challenging on the joints as pavement has no give and lacks cushioning on the landing.
Trail Race Pros:
✅ Trail running a 50k race is a superb way to explore nature and new terrain.
✅ The natural elements provide a unique challenge for experienced runners. Trail running a 50k may bring you new inspiration if you’ve found monotony in road races.
✅ Trails usually have more cushioning, which benefits for your joints.
Trail Race Cons:
❌ Trail 50K races can require a higher level of technical navigation skills and an understanding of the environment. (Read: you may end up lost.)
❌ Unexpected weather conditions and terrain can be incredibly challenging to plan for. Think of heavy rains the days before the race creating a muddy terrain.
❌ Aid stations may be limited, so you should plan and carry your fuel and hydration.
Ultimately, the 50K race that’s best for you depends on your experience level and preference. Whether it be a road 50k or a trail 50k, the challenge can be conquered with proper training and preparation!
FAQs
The “k” in 50k stands for kilometers, a unit of measure in the metric system. Fifty kilometers is equal to 31.07 miles.
Yes, 50K races are considered ultra-marathons. An ultramarathon is determined by any distance beyond the 26.2 miles of a marathon.
A 50K race typically takes 5–9 hours to complete, depending on your experience and pace. Beginners generally require about 6 hours or more, while experienced 50K runners often finish in 5 hours or less.
Many 50K training plans suggest running at least one marathon before race day. This will help to build up your endurance and stamina for the 50K challenge. However, this is not required— the decision is ultimately yours.
Yes, 50ks are challenging races. You’ll need to be fully dedicated and committed to conquering the 50k physically and mentally. Proper training and preparation are essential for success.
Final Thoughts: The 50k in Miles
Completing a 50k is an incredible accomplishment.
50Ks are 31.07 miles, and while that’s just 5 miles further than a marathon, marathoners know the relief when crossing the finish line and often couldn’t imagine taking another step.
It takes dedication and determination to conquer the challenge of a 50k. You can confidently tackle the 50k on race day with proper preparation and unwavering commitment.
Are you ready to take on your first 50k? Start training today!
