Mile Time Predictor
Whether you race the full mile, the 1600m on a high school track or the 1500m, this predictor estimates your time from an 800m, 1500m, 3200m or 5K result. A 1600m is only 9 metres shorter than a mile, so the estimate works for both.
Quick answer: a 2:30 800m converts to about 5:53 for the mile (typical range 5:38 to 6:15).
How it works
The mile is mostly aerobic but finishes with a hard anaerobic kick. From an 800m the model adds the endurance you need for twice the distance; from a 3200m or 5K it works down from your aerobic fitness. Entering one shorter and one longer time gives the tightest estimate.
Training advice
Combine VO2max intervals (for example 5 × 1000m at 3K–5K pace), threshold runs for aerobic strength and some 200m–400m reps at mile pace or faster for speed. Most good mile races are run with fairly even laps and a faster last 300m.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert 1600m to a mile?
Add about 0.6% to your 1600m time, roughly 1.5 s for a 4:30 runner. The predictor handles both distances.
What is a good mile time?
Under 8 minutes is a solid recreational target, under 6 minutes is good club level, and fast high school boys run under about 4:30. The men's world record is 3:43.13 (Hicham El Guerrouj).
Can I predict my mile from a 5K?
Yes. A 5K says a lot about your aerobic fitness, which is most of a mile. Runners with little speed training run the mile slower than the prediction, so add an 800m time if you have one.