Whether you are an avid runner or just starting out, completing a 10K race is a difficult feat. These runs are not something that new runners should ever consider taking on unless they are in good health and are experienced athletes.
Yes, you can run a 10K without any training, but you won’t achieve your best time, and you might end up alternating between walking and running or injuring yourself in the process.
If you are thinking about signing up for your first 10k, here are some important tips to consider before taking the plunge.
How Far Can You Run Without Ttraining?
A healthy, active person should be able to run a mile in under 12 minutes. But runners just starting out can expect this distance to take a bit longer, around 15-20 minutes since they have yet to build up stamina and speed.
For those who are sprint running, you can get a pretty good distance in a short period of time. This is because the body can disperse a large amount of energy for the first few minutes of running at a fast speed before you eventually wear out.
On the other hand, if you are trying to run a long-distance like a 10K, you probably won’t make it very far before you become gassed out and need to stop.
While it is possible to make good time running without training, chances are good; that you are going to regret it the next day, and you are risking the chance of enduring injuries as a result.
How Long Should A 10k Run Take For A Beginner?
The length of time it will take to complete a 10k run for beginners will look a little different depending on whether you are a male or female and the shape you are currently in.
Typically men take around 55 minutes to complete 10K’s on average, whereas women tend to finish around 60-62 minutes on average.
The average time for 10k is based on trained runners who are already experienced and in good physical condition. New runners should expect to add an additional 5 min for each mile, equaling out to around an hour and a half.
Beginners should play it safe when running this distance before they have had time to train, running at a safe pace, and stopping and walking when their bodies need a break.
Can The Average Person Run 10k?
Can an average person run 10k? That depends on what you mean when you say average. The casual runner (getting a run in every day or two a week) will finish a 10k between 50 and 75 minutes. An average avid runner will likely finish a 10K race within 40-50 minutes.
If, by the average person, you are referring to someone who doesn’t typically run, the chances of them finishing a 10K isn’t very likely, at least not in a very good time.
Ordinary people who don’t usually run or train for a 10K won’t have the stamina or endurance to run that far of a distance without having to stop to walk or take a break.
While it is possible for a person who doesn’t run to finish a 10K, it might lead to a lot of pain, injury, and pushing your body to the limits.
How Can I Train For A 10k With No Experience?
If you have never run before, taking some time to train is the best advice anyone could give. This is going to prepare your body for running long-distance and non-stop movements.
One of the best ways to rain for a 10K, especially when you have no prior experience, is to build up your speed and distance little by little. You can do this simply by alternating between walking and running during the first few weeks–walking for 3 minutes and running for 1. In the following sessions, walk for two minutes, run for 1.5, and so on.
If you train consistently, between 3-5 days a week, an average beginner should have plenty of training within 12 weeks to successfully run a 10K,
How Many Miles Should A Beginner Run To Train For A 10K?
A 10K is a little bit more than 6 miles. When you first start training for this type of race, it is best to start with a short distance, working your way up each week. The best way to break your training sessions up is by adding .5 miles to your total run every week for 12 weeks.
If you start your training running .5 miles, walk .5 miles, then rerun .5 miles. The following week run for 1 mile, then walk 1 mile, and so on.
The best way to get yourself in shape for any long-distance run is to hit the pavement at least three days a week and for 30 min a day. If you can get through a half-mile in 8 minutes, walk for 10 minutes, then run the.5 again for 8 minutes, finishing your session with a 4 min cool down.
Final Thoughts
Running is a great exercise for overall fitness, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re new to running, or haven’t exercised in a while, it may be tough to start out by running 10k. But, you should be able to run 10k without training. With some basic training, you can make the run a breeze.