10kilometre

The 10-kilometre, sometimes written as 10-kilometre or 10 kilometre, refers to a distance of 10,000 metres. In athletics it is most commonly contested as a road race and is frequently abbreviated as 10K. On the track, the related standard distance is the 10,000 metres, but road and track events are treated separately for purposes such as course measurement and records.

The distance is widely used for both mass-participation events and elite competitions. Road 10K courses are typically certified by national athletics bodies to ensure the distance is accurate, an essential requirement when official times or records are sought. The 10-kilometre sits between the 5K and the half-marathon in length, making it a popular benchmark for endurance and speed.

Performance and records: there are official records for 10-kilometre distances on road and on track. Top performances are achieved on fast courses and are influenced by factors such as course layout, weather, and pacing. Elite athletes commonly produce times that are well under 60 minutes, with notable milestones including sub-28-minute performances for men and sub-30-minute performances for women on favorable courses.

Use and relevance: the 10-kilometre distance is a frequent choice for training and competition because it balances the demands of speed and endurance. It is a staple in many road racing calendars worldwide and serves as a stepping stone between shorter 5K events and longer distance races.

See also: 5K run, 10,000 metres, road racing.