Swim Time Calculator
Enter a target pace and a distance, and this calculator returns your projected finish time, average 50 and 100 splits, speed, and (optionally) the number of pool lengths.
Formula
The calculator converts your pace into seconds per meter, then multiplies by the total distance in meters:
finish time = (distance in meters) × (pace seconds ÷ basis distance in meters)
When you pick a yard-based basis or yard distance, the value is first converted using 1 yard = 0.9144 meters, so meter and yard inputs compose correctly.
Example 1 — Ironman swim
Pace 1:45 per 100 m for 3800 m: 3800 × (105 ÷ 100) = 3,990 seconds ≈ 1:06:30.
Example 2 — 500 yard test
Pace 1:30 per 100 yd for 500 yd: 500 × (90 ÷ 100) = 450 seconds = 7:30.
FAQ
Should I use per-50 or per-100 pace?
Whatever your workouts use. Short-course sets are often tracked per 50, while distance training is more often tracked per 100.
Does the calculator account for wall push-offs or dives?
No. It assumes a constant pace over the entire distance. Actual finish times in a pool are usually a bit faster than a flat calculation because of turns; in open water they are usually a bit slower.
Why does the pool-length count sometimes end in a fraction?
Because 1 yard ≠ 1 meter. A 1500 m swim is about 65.6 lengths of a 25 yard pool. Round up in practice.
Other calculators
- Reverse the math with the swim pace calculator.
- See a whole grid of paces in the swim pace chart.
- Turn a goal time into a split card with the swim split calculator.