| Athletics 5K run | |
|---|---|
_(6659543339).jpg) Runners during a 5k Parkrun in Cannon Hill Park, United Kingdom | |
| World records | |
| Men | Berihu Aregawi 12:49 (2021) |
| Women | Beatrice Chebet 14:13 Wo (2023) Ejgayehu Taye 14:19 Mx+ (2021) |
The 5K run is a long-distance road running competition over a distance of five kilometres (3.107 mi). Also referred to as the 5K road race, 5 km, or simply 5K, it is the shortest of the most common road running distances. It is usually distinguished from the 5000 metres track running event by stating the distance in kilometres, rather than metres.
Among road running events, the 5K distance is mostly popular with novice or infrequent runners or joggers as it is comparatively easier to complete the distance without endurance training. The 5K distance also makes the distance suitable for people looking to improve or maintain their general physical fitness, rather than develop long-distance running abilities. The brevity of the distance means that less time is required to take part in the activity and that people from a wide range of ages and abilities may participate. From a physiological perspective, five kilometres is towards the low end of endurance running.[1][2]
The combination of the activity's simplicity, its low cost, and medium exercise intensity mean that it is often recommended by medical organisations and healthcare professionals.[3][4][5] Like all physical activity, regular 5K runs can improve cardiovascular function and reduce body fat, as well as having mental health benefits (see runner's high).[6]
- ^ Wolfe-Bieler, Kristen (2007-06-08). Run Your First 5-K. Runner's World. Retrieved on 2014-01-18.
- ^ Liberman, Art; Brown, Randy; Myers, Eileen (January 18, 2012). The Everything Running Book: The Ultimate Guide to Injury-free Running for Fitness and Competition. Adams Media. p. 194. ISBN 9781440529719.
- ^ Beginner 5km programme Archived 2014-02-03 at the Wayback Machine. BUPA. Retrieved on 2014-01-18.
- ^ 5K Fun Run Archived 2014-02-01 at the Wayback Machine. Diabetes.co.uk. Retrieved on 2014-01-18.
- ^ 5K run: 7-week training schedule for beginners. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved on 2014-01-18.
- ^ running with Couch to 5K. National Health Service. Retrieved on 2014-01-18.