The average walking speed of a human is 3 to 4 miles per hour, or 1 mile every 15 to 20 minutes. [1]https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/average-walking-speed. Let’s say that the average walking speed on flat ground is 3.5 miles per hour for an adult with average condition. By using a simple calculator this means that you need 285 hours and about 41 minutes to walk 1000 miles.[2]https://calcpark.com/online-basic-calculator/
Of course, you can do that because you need to eat, sleep and other things unless you have supernatural abilities. So if you walk 12 hours a day, that means you need 23 days and 19 hours to walk 1000 miles.
According to a study walking speed is a fundamental parameter of human motion and is increasingly considered as an important indicator of individuals’ health status.[3]https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0023299
| Age | Miles/hour |
| 20 to 29 | 3.0 to 3.04 |
| 30 to 39 | 3.0 to 3.2 |
| 40 to 49 | 3.11 to 3.2 |
| 50 to 59 | 2.93 to 3.2 |
| 60 to 69 | 2.77 to 3.0 |
| 70 to 79 | 2.53 to 2.82 |
| 80 to 89 | 2.10 to 2.17 |
How to prepare to walk 1000 miles?
Preparing to walk 1000 miles requires a significant amount of planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Set a realistic timeline: Walking 1000 miles is a long-distance challenge, and it’s important to give yourself enough time to train and prepare. Consider your current fitness level and how much time you can realistically dedicate to training each day or week. Make a plan that allows for gradual progress over several months.
- Invest in good walking shoes: Proper footwear is essential for long-distance walking. Invest in a good pair of walking shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Break them in before you begin your training.
- Build up your endurance gradually: Start by walking short distances and gradually increase your distance and speed over time. It’s important to avoid overtraining and injury, so be sure to listen to your body and take rest days when needed.
- Incorporate strength training: Walking long distances requires endurance, but it also requires strength. Incorporate strength training exercises like squats, lunges, and calf raises into your training routine to build up the muscles you’ll need to complete the challenge.
- Stay hydrated and fuel properly: Staying hydrated and fueling your body with the right nutrients is essential for long-distance walking. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Plan your route and supplies: Before you begin your 1000-mile journey, plan your route and make sure you have everything you need, including food, water, and appropriate gear for the climate and terrain.
- Consider walking with a partner: Long-distance walking can be mentally challenging, and having a walking partner can provide motivation and support. Consider walking with a friend or joining a walking group to help you stay on track.
Remember, the key to successfully walking 1000 miles is to take it one step at a time and be patient with yourself. With proper planning and preparation, you can achieve your goal and enjoy the journey along the way.