The 5000 metres (approximately 3.1 mi or 16,404 ft) is a popular running distance also known as 5 km or 5K ("five-K"). It is one of the track events in the Olympic Games and the World Championships in Athletics. "5000 metres" refers to racing on a track and "5K" usually refers to a roadrace or cross country event. While mainly run as an outdoor event, the 5000 m is sometimes run on an indoor track. Official records are kept for both outdoor and indoor 5000 m track events, but not for 5 km road races.
Much of the distance's popularity is due to the challenge it offers to both novices and accomplished professionals. It is a distance race that demands a great deal of aerobic endurance. Whilst speed is necessary, tactics also play a key role, and the combination makes it attractive to many. If the 5000 metres were to be done at "four-minute-mile" pace then the 12.5 laps would be some 12 seconds faster than current men's world record at 12 minutes 25.6 seconds.
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