How to Walk a 16 Minute Mile

Walking a 16-minute mile can be a great way to get moving and exercise your body. In most 5k races a 16-minute mile is required to stay on the course during the race. Often times if you do not complete each mile in 16 minutes you will be asked to leave the course. A great way to make sure you are staying on pace is by using a stop watch.

Things You'll Need

  • Timing device
  • Distance calculating device
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate the total distance you will be walking. It is possible to walk less than a mile at a 16-minute per mile pace. Determine where you will start and where you sill end. Use a distance calculating device such as a car odometer to measure the total distance.

    • 2

      Measure 1/4 of a mile from your starting position. Look for any land marks that will help you remember that first point. Repeat the step until your entire walking route is plotted with visual aids every 1/4 of a mile.

    • 3

      Hold a stop watch in your hand and start it when you begin walking. Walk to the first 1/4 of a mile check point and look at the stop watch. The stop watch needs to say four minutes for you to be on pace to walk a 16-minute mile.

    • 4

      Adjust your walking speed according to the measurement taken at the first checkpoint. If you were under four minutes you should slow down, if you were over four minutes you should speed up.