How far is 5k?

An achievable distance for all women

Race for Life events are 5km (or just over three miles) so it’s not that much further than when you walk your dog, go sightseeing  or on a shopping trip.Take a look at some examples below on how easily you can cover 5k.

We also have great training tips to help you get fit. But the first step is to find a Race for Life event near you and enter today!

5k is…

 strolling down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh a little less than three times.

 walking in a loop from the top of Bute Park in Cardiff, following the river around Millennium Stadium.

 walking down Blackpool's promenade and main piers, taking in the sights.

 wandering from Brighton Seafront to the railway station through the Lanes. 

 walking from the start of Whiteladies Road in Bristol down to the Floating Harbour and back to the edge of Westbury Park.

 a day's shopping trip in Leeds, walking around the St John's Centre, Victoria Quarter and Headrow Shopping Centre finishing in the Corn Exchange.

 not much further than walking down London's Oxford Street, into Covent Garden and finishing on Regent Street via Soho.

 walking from Royal Avenue around Castle Court and into the new Victoria Centre three times in Belfast.

How long does it take to complete the 5k course?

Race for Life events are not competitive, so you can walk, run or jog the course at your own pace. Those who jog or run often complete the 5k course in about 30 – 45 minutes and walkers take about an hour but there is no pressure to finish in a certain time.

Take the 10k challenge

Double the distance and double the fun with Race for Life 10k.
Find out how far 10k is.

Training advice and tips

Take a look at our 5k and 10k training plans to help you get ready for your Race for Life event.  

Join the fight against cancer and enter Race for Life

Every two minutes someone in the UK is told they have cancer. Join the biggest fight against cancer and enter your local Race for Life event.