Could you outrun Michael Myers this Halloween? Key running pace revealed

“Realistic human limits are important for understanding the speeds of these horror film killers. Average joggers typically run at about 5 mph, while professional sprinters can reach speeds between 15 and 28 mph.

“By comparing these benchmarks to the movements of characters, we can use these as an estimate of how fast they might realistically be portrayed in their films.”

“Filming techniques and the relentless nature of these killers also influence how their speed is estimated. While some may not be the fastest, their determination and endurance create an impression that they can easily catch up to their targets.

Michael Myers, Halloween

"Michael Myers is known for his slow, methodical walk. His average speed is around 2-3 mph, which is a typical walking pace. To outrun him on the treadmill, you’d need to set the speed to 5 mph for a steady jog, which would take an hour to run 5 miles.

“For an added twist, set the incline to 1% to mimic the feeling of running through suburban streets. Consistency, rather than speed, is what will keep you ahead of Michael."

Freddy Krueger, A Nightmare on Elm Street

"Freddy Krueger’s speed is less important since he operates within dreams, where the rules don’t apply. If you were to face Freddy in the real world, though, his movement would likely resemble Michael Myers, around 2-3 mph.

“Like Michael, a steady jog at 5 mph would allow you to outrun him in an hour over 5 miles. To make it more challenging, try a 2% incline to simulate running uphill in a dream-like state where escape feels tougher."

Jason Voorhees, Friday the 13th

"Jason Voorhees also takes a slow but determined approach, with a speed of around 2-3 mph. To get away from him, you would need to set the treadmill speed to 4 mph, and it would take 75 minutes to run 5 miles.

"For a reduced time, increase the speed to level 5, which would take 60 minutes to cover the same distance.

“To make it more challenging, add a 3% incline to simulate the uneven, wooded terrain of Camp Crystal Lake. Running through this kind of terrain requires strong stamina, as Jason may be slow, but he never stops coming."

Leatherface, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

"Despite his size, Leatherface is surprisingly quick, especially when he’s wielding his chainsaw. His estimated speed is around 10 mph, so you’d need to sprint at about 12 mph to outrun him, completing 5 miles in roughly 25 minutes.

“To simulate the obstacles and rugged terrain of his hunting grounds, increase the treadmill incline to 4%, adding extra difficulty to your run. This will push your endurance and help you stay one step ahead."

Ghostface, Scream

"Unlike the other killers, Ghostface is much faster and more agile, often running after his victims at a speed of around 10-12 mph. To escape him, you'd need to sprint faster than 12 mph, and it would take about 25 minutes to run 5 miles.

“Keep the treadmill flat for this one, and focus on quick bursts of speed to outpace him. For an extra challenge, work on your agility by practising short sprints."

Survival Rate: 3/5

​"Slower killers like Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, and Freddy Krueger can be outrun with a steady jog at 5 mph, but they require solid endurance to maintain the distance.

“More agile killers like Ghostface and Leatherface demand bursts of speed at around 12 mph, which means you’ll need to conserve energy and know when to sprint if you want to survive."

Boxing Challenge: Can you beat these killers?

After your treadmill run, test your agility, strength, and endurance with a Boxing Killer Round.

Use the boxing bag and pick your favourite horror film killer, throwing punches and building up agility to escape.

• Michael Myers: Focus on slow but strong punches, imagining knocking Michael back with each hit, working on power.
• Freddy Krueger: Throw fast, unpredictable jabs to stay ahead of Freddy’s tricky dream attacks, focusing on speed and unpredictability.
• Jason Voorhees: Deliver strong, consistent punches to build stamina, as Jason’s toughness requires endurance.
• Ghostface: Practise quick combinations to match Ghostface’s speed, focusing on rapid combos and footwork.
• Leatherface: Emphasise heavy hits with strong hooks and body punches to counter Leatherface’s brute strength.