Font Subscript & Superscript: How to Type Them

Subscript and superscript are smaller characters that sit slightly below or above the normal text line. You type them by using a formatting tool in your word processor, a keyboard shortcut, or an HTML tag, depending on where you are writing. This article explains what they are, how to create them in common programs, and when to use them.

Formula

The calculator above finds your average pace and speed for a run or ride. The formulas are:

• Pace = Finish time ÷ Distance (minutes per kilometer)
• Speed = Distance ÷ (Finish time ÷ 60) (kilometers per hour)

Variables:

• t – finish time in minutes
• d – distance in kilometers

Pace is the time it takes to cover one unit of distance. Speed is how far you travel in one hour. The two are reciprocals when you account for units: a 5 min/km pace equals 12 km/h.

Worked Example

Using the default values: finish time = 50 minutes, distance = 10 km.

1. Pace = 50 ÷ 10 = 5.00 min/km
2. Speed = 10 ÷ (50 ÷ 60) = 10 ÷ 0.8333 = 12.00 km/h

So you run at 5 minutes per kilometer, which is 12 kilometers per hour.

Why Track Pace and Speed?

Runners and cyclists use pace to plan workouts and races. A target pace tells you how fast to go for a given distance. Speed is more common for cyclists and drivers, where distance per hour is natural. Both numbers help you compare efforts across different distances and terrains.

For example, a 5K race in 25 minutes gives a pace of 5 min/km. A 10K in 60 minutes also gives 5 min/km, even though the total time is longer. Pace normalizes effort per kilometer, making it easier to compare.

How to Read the Results

A lower pace number means faster – you cover each kilometer in less time. A higher speed number means faster – you travel more kilometers per hour. The two always move in opposite directions: if your pace drops from 6 to 5 min/km, your speed rises from 10 to 12 km/h.

Many runners use pace for training zones. Easy runs might be 6–7 min/km, tempo runs 4:30–5:00, and intervals 3:30–4:00. These ranges vary by fitness level, so use your own recent race times as a reference.

Common Mistakes

• Mixing units: If you enter distance in miles but want pace per kilometer, the result is wrong. Convert miles to km first (multiply by 1.60934) or use a separate calculator.
• Using seconds: The calculator expects minutes. If your time is 50:30, enter 50.5, not 50.30.
• Confusing pace with speed: Pace is time per distance; speed is distance per time. They are not interchangeable.
• Rounding too early: If you round pace to 5.0 min/km and then compute speed, you get 12.0, but the exact value from 50/10 is exactly 12.0, so it is fine here. In other cases, keep extra digits until the end.

Limits of the Calculator

This calculator assumes constant speed over the entire distance. Real runs have hills, stops, and variations, so the actual pace at any moment differs. It also ignores fatigue, weather, and terrain. For planning, use the average as a target, not a guarantee.

The formula works for any distance and time, but the default max of 100,000 km is far beyond any realistic run. If you enter a time of 0, the result is undefined; the calculator shows an error because you cannot divide by zero.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good running pace for a beginner?

A beginner might run at 7–9 min/km (about 6.7–8.6 km/h). This depends on age, fitness, and experience. The best pace is one you can maintain while still holding a conversation.

How do I convert pace to speed?

Divide 60 by your pace in minutes per kilometer. For example, 5 min/km → 60 ÷ 5 = 12 km/h. Conversely, speed to pace: 60 ÷ speed in km/h = minutes per km.

Should I use pace or speed for training?

Most runners use pace because it directly relates to time over a race distance. Cyclists often use speed. Choose whichever you can measure accurately during your workout.

Can I use this for walking?

Yes. Walking pace is typically 10–15 min/km (4–6 km/h). The formula works the same for any human-powered movement.

What if my distance is in miles?

Convert miles to kilometers first: multiply miles by 1.60934. Then enter the result. Or enter the distance in km directly if your device shows that.

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in t | Finish time | min | 50 | 0
in d | Distance | km | 10 | 0 | 100000
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2