Pace and target planning
Multiday Pace Calculator
Calculate required pace, hourly distance targets, and estimated split effort for timed multiday events. Use it for 24-hour races, 48-hour races, 6-day races, and backyard ultras where sleep time, walking, and stopped time change the real math.
Your Targets
How to Use the Calculator
Start with a realistic distance goal, then enter the total event time and any planned sleep. The calculator turns that into an average pace and hourly distance target. In timed events, the most useful number is often hourly distance because it keeps the plan simple when fatigue makes pace feel abstract.
For a 24-hour race, use the sleep field for longer stops only. For a 48-hour or 6-day race, include planned sleep blocks so the pace estimate reflects the time you actually expect to move. Keep a safety margin for bathroom breaks, shoe changes, weather layers, and aid station drift.
Planning Notes
- 100 miles in 24 hours requires 4.17 miles per hour, or 14:24 per mile including all stops.
- Walking early can keep the average steadier than running hard early and walking late.
- Pace targets should be checked against training, terrain, weather, and loop logistics.
- For backyard ultras, use loop count as the goal and remember that each hour has a fixed start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate pace for a 24-hour race?
Divide your target distance by your available moving time, then convert that hourly distance into pace per kilometer or mile. Include planned sleep, aid station stops, and walk breaks because 24-hour race pace is an average across the entire event, not just running time.
Should I plan sleep in a 24-hour race?
Most first-time 24-hour runners do not schedule sleep, but some runners take short resets if safety or focus drops. Sleep becomes more important in 48-hour and 6-day events, where planned rest can protect later-race movement.
What is a realistic 24-hour race target?
Many prepared first-timers target 60 to 80 miles. Experienced ultrarunners often aim for 100 miles, which requires averaging 14:24 per mile including all stops.
How should I use walk percentage?
Use walk percentage to model how much of the event you expect to spend walking. Early planned walking usually beats late forced walking because it reduces muscle damage and keeps your average pace steadier.
Need help setting realistic targets? Read our distance targets guide and 24-hour race explainer.