Average swim times by age can vary. The average time to swim 25 yards is about 30 – 45 seconds. The average 100m swim time by age is 01:45 – 02:15.
Use our average swim times by age tables for 25 yd, 25m, 50m, 100 yd, and 100m. Plus easy-to-read motivational swim times that are established swimmers benchmarks.
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Table Contents
Average swim times by age and ability
Let’s dive straight into average swim times by age, ability, and pool distance. Below the charts, you’ll find more information on swim times, pool lengths, how many laps to swim a mile or kilometer, plus how to improve your speed.
What do we mean by swimming abilities?
Average swim times by age for 25 yards
The average swimmer can complete a 25-yard swim in 30 – 45 seconds. However, this can vary depending on skill and fitness. For example, a competitive swimmer can swim this distance in 15 – 25 seconds and an elite swimmer in under 10 seconds.
25 yards | |||||
Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 00:47.5 | 00:38.1 | 00:30.0 | 00:23.7 | 00:18.8 |
| 15 | 00:43.0 | 00:32.9 | 00:26.0 | 00:20.5 | 00:16.3 |
| 20 | 00:39.9 | 00:31.8 | 00:25.1 | 00:19.8 | 00:15.8 |
| 25 | 00:39.9 | 00:31.8 | 00:25.1 | 00:19.8 | 00:15.8 |
| 30 | 00:40.2 | 00:31.9 | 00:25.1 | 00:19.8 | 00:15.8 |
| 35 | 00:40.6 | 00:32.4 | 00:25.5 | 00:20.1 | 00:16.0 |
| 40 | 00:42.0 | 00:33.5 | 00:26.4 | 00:20.8 | 00:16.6 |
| 45 | 00:43.6 | 00:34.7 | 00:27.4 | 00:21.6 | 00:17.2 |
| 50 | 00:45.3 | 00:36.1 | 00:28.5 | 00:22.4 | 00:17.9 |
| 55 | 00:47.1 | 00:37.6 | 00:29.7 | 00:23.4 | 00:18.6 |
| 60 | 00:49.1 | 00:39.2 | 00:30.9 | 00:24.4 | 00:19.4 |
| 65 | 00:51.3 | 00:40.9 | 00:32.3 | 00:25.4 | 00:20.3 |
| 70 | 00:53.9 | 00:43.0 | 00:33.9 | 00:26.7 | 00:21.3 |
| 75 | 00:58.0 | 00:46.2 | 00:36.4 | 00:28.7 | 00:22.9 |
| 80 | 01:04.1 | 00:51.1 | 00:40.3 | 00:31.8 | 00:25.3 |
| 85 | 01:13.8 | 00:58.8 | 00:46.4 | 00:36.6 | 00:29.2 |
| 90 | 01:29.9 | 01:11.7 | 00:56.5 | 00:44.6 | 00:35.5 |
Short course yard pool (SCYs) - 25 yards
Also known as short course yards (SCYs) pool, this pool size is the standard for most collegiate and high school swimming competitions in the United States.
Most pools that you encounter in your local gym or community center will also be short-course yard pools.
The average swimmer can swim 25 yards in 30 - 45 seconds. A 25-yard swim is usually held in a short course yards swimming pool.
Average swim times by age for 25 meters
The average swimming time by age 25 m (intermediate swimmers) is between 25 – 40 seconds. Advanced and elite swimmers will swim faster than this.
25m pool | |||||
Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 00:52.0 | 00:41.7 | 00:32.8 | 00:25.9 | 00:20.6 |
| 15 | 00:47.0 | 00:36.0 | 00:28.4 | 00:22.4 | 00:17.8 |
| 20 | 00:43.6 | 00:34.8 | 00:27.4 | 00:21.6 | 00:17.3 |
| 25 | 00:43.6 | 00:34.8 | 00:27.4 | 00:21.6 | 00:17.3 |
| 30 | 00:44.0 | 00:34.8 | 00:27.4 | 00:21.6 | 00:17.3 |
| 35 | 00:44.4 | 00:35.4 | 00:27.9 | 00:22.0 | 00:17.6 |
| 40 | 00:46.0 | 00:36.6 | 00:28.9 | 00:22.8 | 00:18.1 |
| 45 | 00:47.7 | 00:38.0 | 00:29.9 | 00:23.7 | 00:18.8 |
| 50 | 00:49.6 | 00:39.5 | 00:31.2 | 00:24.6 | 00:19.6 |
| 55 | 00:51.6 | 00:41.1 | 00:32.5 | 00:25.6 | 00:20.4 |
| 60 | 00:53.7 | 00:42.9 | 00:33.8 | 00:26.6 | 00:21.3 |
| 65 | 00:56.1 | 00:44.8 | 00:35.3 | 00:27.8 | 00:22.1 |
| 70 | 00:58.9 | 00:47.0 | 00:37.0 | 00:29.2 | 00:23.3 |
| 75 | 01:03.4 | 00:50.5 | 00:39.8 | 00:31.4 | 00:25.0 |
| 80 | 01:10.1 | 00:55.9 | 00:44.0 | 00:34.8 | 00:27.7 |
| 85 | 01:20.8 | 01:04.3 | 00:50.8 | 00:40.0 | 00:31.9 |
| 90 | 01:38.4 | 01:18.4 | 01:01.8 | 00:48.8 | 00:38.8 |
Short course meter (SCMs) 25-meter pool
The length of the pool is standard for most international swimming competitions, including the Olympic Games. A short course meter pool is slightly longer than a short course yard pool so it takes marginally fewer laps to swim one mile.
If you are training for a short course meter pool event, such as a triathlon or open water race, do your workouts in a pool of the same size.
The average swim times by age for 25 meters is 25 - 40 seconds. Beginner swimmers will take longer and more experienced swimmers will be faster.
Average swim times by age for 50-meter pool
The average swimming time for 50 meters is about 1 minute. Advanced swimmers will swim 50m in 40 – 60 seconds.
| 50m pool | |||||
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 01:44.0 | 01:23.3 | 01:05.7 | 00:51.8 | 00:41.2 |
| 15 | 01:34.0 | 01:12.0 | 00:56.8 | 00:44.8 | 00:35.7 |
| 20 | 01:27.3 | 01:09.6 | 00:54.9 | 00:43.3 | 00:34.5 |
| 25 | 01:27.3 | 01:09.6 | 00:54.9 | 00:43.3 | 00:34.5 |
| 30 | 01:27.9 | 01:09.7 | 00:54.9 | 00:43.3 | 00:34.5 |
| 35 | 01:28.8 | 01:10.8 | 00:55.8 | 00:44.0 | 00:35.1 |
| 40 | 01:31.9 | 01:13.3 | 00:57.8 | 00:45.5 | 00:36.3 |
| 45 | 01:35.4 | 01:16.0 | 00:59.9 | 00:47.3 | 00:37.7 |
| 50 | 01:39.1 | 01:19.0 | 01:02.3 | 00:49.1 | 00:39.1 |
| 55 | 01:43.1 | 01:22.2 | 01:04.9 | 00:51.1 | 00:40.7 |
| 60 | 01:47.5 | 01:25.7 | 01:07.6 | 00:53.3 | 00:42.5 |
| 65 | 01:52.3 | 01:29.5 | 01:10.6 | 00:55.6 | 00:44.3 |
| 70 | 01:57.9 | 01:34.0 | 01:14.1 | 00:58.4 | 00:46.6 |
| 75 | 02:06.8 | 01:41.0 | 01:19.6 | 01:02.8 | 00:50.0 |
| 80 | 02:20.3 | 01:51.8 | 01:28.1 | 01:09.5 | 00:55.4 |
| 85 | 02:41.5 | 02:08.7 | 01:41.5 | 01:20.0 | 01:03.8 |
| 90 | 03:16.7 | 02:36.8 | 02:03.6 | 01:37.5 | 01:17.7 |
Long Course Meters (LCM) pool - 50m
An Olympic-sized pool (50m) or Long Course Meters (LCM) pool is the standard size for all Olympic swimming competitions. The pool is also commonly used for national and international swimming competitions, such as the World Championships and the Pan Pacific Games.
Average swim times by age for 50m are about 1 minute. Advanced to elite swimmers can cover this distance in less than 60 seconds.
Average 100-yard swim time by age
On average, swimmers will swim 100 yards in 01:40 to 02:00. However, yd times can vary depending on your age and ability and beginners can take 02:00 to 03:00+ minutes.
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced |
| 10 | 03:10.5 | 02:31.9 | 01:59.8 | 01:34.4 |
| 15 | 02:44.9 | 02:11.4 | 01:43.6 | 01:21.7 |
| 20 | 02:39.3 | 02:07.0 | 01:40.1 | 01:19.0 |
| 25 | 02:39.3 | 02:07.0 | 01:40.1 | 01:19.0 |
| 30 | 02:39.5 | 02:07.1 | 01:40.2 | 01:19.0 |
| 35 | 02:42.0 | 02:09.2 | 01:41.8 | 01:20.3 |
| 40 | 02:47.7 | 02:13.6 | 01:45.4 | 01:23.1 |
| 45 | 02:54.0 | 02:18.7 | 01:49.3 | 01:26.2 |
| 50 | 03:00.8 | 02:24.1 | 01:53.6 | 01:29.6 |
| 55 | 03:08.1 | 02:30.0 | 01:58.3 | 01:33.2 |
| 60 | 03:16.1 | 02:36.3 | 02:03.3 | 01:37.2 |
| 65 | 03:24.8 | 02:43.3 | 02:08.7 | 01:41.5 |
| 70 | 03:35.1 | 02:51.5 | 02:15.2 | 01:46.6 |
| 75 | 03:51.1 | 03:04.2 | 02:25.3 | 01:54.6 |
| 80 | 04:15.8 | 03:23.9 | 02:40.8 | 02:06.8 |
The average 100-yard swimming time is 01:40 to 02:00. However, yd times can vary depending on your age and ability.
100-meter swim times by age
The average 100m swim times by age are between 01:45 to 02:15. Beginner swimmers can cover this distance in about 3 to 4 minutes.
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced |
| 10 | 03:28.4 | 02:46.1 | 02:11.0 | 01:43.3 |
| 15 | 03:00.3 | 02:23.7 | 01:53.3 | 01:29.4 |
| 20 | 02:54.2 | 02:18.9 | 01:49.5 | 01:26.4 |
| 25 | 02:54.2 | 02:18.9 | 01:49.5 | 01:26.4 |
| 30 | 02:54.4 | 02:19.0 | 01:49.6 | 01:26.4 |
| 35 | 02:57.2 | 02:21.3 | 01:51.4 | 01:27.8 |
| 40 | 03:03.4 | 02:26.1 | 01:55.2 | 01:30.9 |
| 45 | 03:10.3 | 02:31.7 | 01:59.6 | 01:34.3 |
| 50 | 03:17.7 | 02:37.6 | 02:04.3 | 01:38.0 |
| 55 | 03:25.8 | 02:44.0 | 02:09.3 | 01:42.0 |
| 60 | 03:34.5 | 02:51.0 | 02:14.8 | 01:46.3 |
| 65 | 03:44.0 | 02:58.6 | 02:20.8 | 01:51.0 |
| 70 | 03:55.3 | 03:07.5 | 02:27.9 | 01:56.6 |
| 75 | 04:12.8 | 03:21.5 | 02:38.9 | 02:05.3 |
| 80 | 04:39.8 | 03:43.0 | 02:55.8 | 02:18.7 |
The average swim time by age for a 100-meter swim is 01:45 to 02:15. Beginners will take longer, between 03:00 to 04:00 minutes.
How many laps in a pool is a mile?
This depends on the size of the pool and the length of the “mile.” In competitive swimming, a “mile” swim is 1,500 meters or 1,650 yards. This is also known as the “metric mile” or “swimmers’ mile.”
However, in the USA, if you are competing in a triathlon, then the “mile” is the standard measurement of 1,609 meters or 1760 yards which is known as a “true” mile.
Keep in mind that a lap is usually twice the length — there and back in a pool.
| Distance | 25 Yard Pool | 25 Meter Pool | 33 Meter Pool | 50 Meter Pool |
| Swimmer’s mile (1,500m or 1,650 yds) | 33 laps | 30 laps | 22 ¾ laps | 15 laps |
| 66 lengths | 60 lengths | 45 ½ lengths | 30 lengths | |
| True mile (1,609m or 1,760 yds) | 35 ¼ laps | 32 ¼ laps | 24 ⅓ laps | 16 laps |
| 70 ½ lengths | 64 ½ lengths | 48 ⅔ laps | 32 lengths |
Average mile time for women of all ages and swimming abilities - swimmer's mile
Average 1-mile swimming times for women | |||||
Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 59:52 | 48:54 | 39:34 | 32:01 | 26:09 |
| 15 | 53:44 | 43:54 | 35:31 | 28:44 | 23:29 |
| 20 | 51:09 | 41:47 | 33:49 | 27:21 | 22:21 |
| 25 | 51:09 | 41:47 | 33:49 | 27:21 | 22:21 |
| 30 | 51:09 | 41:47 | 33:49 | 27:21 | 22:21 |
| 35 | 51:29 | 42:04 | 34:02 | 27:32 | 22:30 |
| 40 | 52:33 | 42:56 | 34:44 | 28:06 | 22:58 |
| 45 | 54:26 | 44:28 | 35:59 | 29:07 | 23:47 |
| 50 | 57:14 | 46:46 | 37:50 | 30:37 | 25:00 |
| 55 | 01:00:32 | 49:27 | 40:01 | 32:22 | 26:27 |
| 60 | 01:04:13 | 52:28 | 42:27 | 34:20 | 28:03 |
| 65 | 01:08:23 | 55:52 | 45:12 | 36:34 | 29:53 |
| 70 | 01:13:08 | 59:44 | 48:20 | 39:07 | 31:57 |
| 75 | 01:18:35 | 01:04:12 | 51:57 | 42:02 | 34:20 |
| 80 | 01:25:04 | 01:09:30 | 56:14 | 45:30 | 37:10 |
| 85 | 01:35:47 | 01:18:15 | 01:03:19 | 51:14 | 41:51 |
| 90 | 01:55:27 | 01:34:19 | 01:16:18 | 01:01:44 | 50:26 |
Average mile time for men of all ages and swimming abilities - swimmer's mile
| Average 1-mile swimming times for men | |||||
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 59:37 | 47:32 | 37:28 | 29:33 | 23:33 |
| 15 | 51:36 | 41:08 | 32:26 | 25:34 | 20:23 |
| 20 | 49:51 | 39:44 | 31:20 | 24:43 | 19:42 |
| 25 | 49:51 | 39:44 | 31:20 | 24:43 | 19:42 |
| 30 | 49:54 | 39:46 | 31:22 | 24:44 | 19:43 |
| 35 | 50:43 | 40:25 | 31:52 | 25:08 | 20:02 |
| 40 | 52:28 | 41:49 | 32:59 | 26:00 | 20:44 |
| 45 | 54:26 | 43:24 | 34:13 | 26:59 | 21:30 |
| 50 | 56:34 | 45:06 | 35:33 | 28:02 | 22:21 |
| 55 | 58:53 | 46:56 | 37:00 | 29:11 | 23:16 |
| 60 | 01:01:23 | 48:55 | 38:35 | 30:25 | 24:15 |
| 65 | 01:04:06 | 51:06 | 40:17 | 31:46 | 25:19 |
| 70 | 01:07:19 | 53:40 | 42:19 | 33:22 | 26:36 |
| 75 | 01:12:20 | 57:39 | 45:28 | 35:51 | 28:34 |
| 80 | 01:20:03 | 01:03:49 | 50:19 | 39:40 | 31:37 |
| 85 | 01:32:09 | 01:13:28 | 57:55 | 45:40 | 36:24 |
| 90 | 01:52:17 | 01:29:30 | 01:10:35 | 55:39 | 44:22 |
The number of laps to swim a mile depends on the pool length. Keep in mind that a lap is usually there and back in a pool.
How many laps is 1-kilometer swim?
The number of laps to swim a kilometer will depend on the length of the pool. In general, 10 to 22 laps. A lap is generally there and back in a pool.
| Distance | 25 Yard Pool | 25 Meter Pool | 33 Meter Pool | 50 Meter Pool |
| 1 kilometer (1,000m or 1, 093yds) | 22 laps | 20 laps | 15 ¼ laps | 10 laps |
| 43 ¾ lengths | 40 lengths | 30 ½ lengths | 20 lengths |
Average swim time for 1 kilometer by age and ability for women
The average female swimmer will swim a kilometer in about 20 – 40 minutes depending on their age and ability.
| Average 1 km swimming times for women | |||||
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 36:38 | 29:56 | 24:13 | 19:35 | 16:00 |
| 15 | 32:53 | 26:52 | 21:44 | 17:35 | 14:22 |
| 20 | 31:18 | 25:34 | 20:41 | 16:44 | 13:41 |
| 25 | 31:18 | 25:34 | 20:41 | 16:44 | 13:41 |
| 30 | 31:18 | 25:34 | 20:41 | 16:44 | 13:41 |
| 35 | 31:30 | 25:44 | 20:50 | 16:51 | 13:46 |
| 40 | 32:10 | 26:16 | 21:15 | 17:12 | 14:03 |
| 45 | 33:18 | 27:13 | 22:01 | 17:49 | 14:33 |
| 50 | 35:02 | 28:37 | 23:09 | 18:44 | 15:18 |
| 55 | 37:02 | 30:16 | 24:29 | 19:49 | 16:11 |
| 60 | 39:18 | 32:06 | 25:58 | 21:01 | 17:10 |
| 65 | 41:51 | 34:11 | 27:40 | 22:23 | 18:17 |
| 70 | 44:45 | 36:34 | 29:35 | 23:56 | 19:33 |
| 75 | 48:06 | 39:17 | 31:47 | 25:43 | 21:01 |
| 80 | 52:04 | 42:32 | 34:25 | 27:50 | 22:45 |
| 85 | 58:37 | 47:53 | 38:45 | 31:21 | 25:37 |
| 90 | 01:10:39 | 57:43 | 46:42 | 37:47 | 30:52 |
Average swim time for 1 kilometer by age and ability for men
The average male swimmer will take about 20 to 30 minutes to swim a kilometer. Advanced swimmers will cover this distance in about 15 minutes.
| Average 1km swimming times for men | |||||
| Age | Beginner | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
| 10 | 36:32 | 29:07 | 22:58 | 18:06 | 14:26 |
| 15 | 31:37 | 25:12 | 19:52 | 15:40 | 12:29 |
| 20 | 30:33 | 24:21 | 19:12 | 15:08 | 12:04 |
| 25 | 30:33 | 24:21 | 19:12 | 15:08 | 12:04 |
| 30 | 30:35 | 24:22 | 19:13 | 15:09 | 12:05 |
| 35 | 31:04 | 24:46 | 19:32 | 15:24 | 12:16 |
| 40 | 32:09 | 25:38 | 20:12 | 15:56 | 12:42 |
| 45 | 33:22 | 26:35 | 20:58 | 16:32 | 13:11 |
| 50 | 34:40 | 27:38 | 21:47 | 17:11 | 13:42 |
| 55 | 36:05 | 28:45 | 22:41 | 17:53 | 14:15 |
| 60 | 37:37 | 29:59 | 23:38 | 18:38 | 14:51 |
| 65 | 39:17 | 31:19 | 24:41 | 19:28 | 15:31 |
| 70 | 41:15 | 32:53 | 25:56 | 20:27 | 16:18 |
| 75 | 44:19 | 35:20 | 27:51 | 21:58 | 17:31 |
| 80 | 49:03 | 39:06 | 30:50 | 24:19 | 19:23 |
| 85 | 56:28 | 45:01 | 35:30 | 27:59 | 22:18 |
| 90 | 01:08:48 | 54:51 | 43:15 | 34:06 | 27:11 |
The number of laps to swim a kilometer will depend on the pool length. Generally, the average person will swim a kilometer in 20 - 40 minutes depending on their level. Advanced and elite swimmers will be even quicker.
Average swim times by age - motivational times
The National Age Group Motivational standards are swim time standards set by USA Swimming, the national governing body for the sport of swimming in the USA.
The swimming standards are designed to motivate and challenge different age-group swimmers.
There are 6 levels:
B standards or B Min (Bronze Min)
This is the slowest minimum time standard. It’s typically used for beginners and swimmers who are not yet competitive.
BB standards or BB Min (Bronze-Silver Min)
The swim times for this level are slightly faster than B Min. It is usually used to motivate swimmers who are beginning to compete but are not yet at the top level.
A standards or A Min (Silver Min)
A standard is a more challenging minimum time standard. It’s used for competitive swimmers who are aiming to compete in local and regional competitions.
AA standards or AA Min (Silver-Gold Min)
The next level is even more challenging than the A Min. It is used for swimmers who are aiming to place high in national and international competitions.
AAA Standards or AAA Min (Gold Min)
This stands for the fastest minimum time standard. It’s generally used for elite swimmers who are aiming to win medals at major championships.
AAAA Standards or AAAA Min (Gold Star Min)
The AAAA Standards are the highest level of performance for the motivational standards. It’s usually associated with swimmers who can compete in national to international competitions.
Swimming strokes
Free: Freestyle swimming or front crawl
Back: Backstroke
Breast: Breaststroke
Fly: Butterfly
IM: Individual medley (butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, freestyle)
Motivational swim times by age - girls under 10
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 38.89 | 35.19 | 31.39 | 30.19 | 28.89 | 27.69 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:29.59 | 1:19.99 | 1:10.49 | 1:07.29 | 1:04.19 | 1:00.99 |
| 200 Y Free | 3:18.99 | 2:57.19 | 2:35.39 | 2:28.19 | 2:20.89 | 2:13.59 |
| 500 Y Free | 8:25.39 | 7:34.89 | 6:44.29 | 6:27.49 | 6:10.59 | 5:53.79 |
| 50 Y Back | 46.99 | 41.89 | 36.69 | 34.99 | 33.29 | 31.59 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:41.99 | 1:30.69 | 1:19.29 | 1:15.59 | 1:11.79 | 1:07.99 |
| 50 Y Breast | 53.19 | 47.49 | 41.69 | 39.79 | 37.89 | 35.99 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:58.09 | 1:44.99 | 1:31.89 | 1:27.49 | 1:23.09 | 1:18.79 |
| 50 Y Fly | 47.39 | 41.79 | 36.19 | 34.39 | 32.49 | 30.59 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:53.99 | 1:39.09 | 1:24.09 | 1:19.19 | 1:14.19 | 1:09.19 |
| 100 Y IM | 1:42.59 | 1:31.69 | 1:20.79 | 1:17.09 | 1:13.49 | 1:09.79 |
| 200 Y IM | 3:38.49 | 3:15.59 | 2:52.69 | 2:45.09 | 2:37.39 | 2:29.79 |
Motivational swim times by age - boys under 10
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 38.09 | 34.49 | 30.99 | 29.79 | 28.59 | 27.39 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:27.79 | 1:18.79 | 1:09.69 | 1:06.69 | 1:03.69 | 1:00.59 |
| 200 Y Free | 3:06.69 | 2:47.99 | 2:29.39 | 2:23.09 | 2:16.89 | 2:10.69 |
| 500 Y Free | 8:16.69 | 7:26.99 | 6:37.39 | 6:20.79 | 6:04.19 | 5:47.69 |
| 50 Y Back | 47.49 | 42.29 | 36.99 | 35.19 | 33.49 | 31.69 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:39.79 | 1:29.29 | 1:18.79 | 1:15.39 | 1:11.89 | 1:08.39 |
| 50 Y Breast | 52.09 | 46.59 | 40.99 | 39.19 | 37.29 | 35.49 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:53.39 | 1:41.69 | 1:29.99 | 1:26.09 | 1:22.19 | 1:18.29 |
| 50 Y Fly | 45.69 | 40.49 | 35.39 | 33.69 | 31.99 | 30.29 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:51.39 | 1:37.09 | 1:22.79 | 1:17.99 | 1:13.19 | 1:08.49 |
| 100 Y IM | 1:38.79 | 1:28.89 | 1:18.99 | 1:15.69 | 1:12.39 | 1:09.09 |
| 200 Y IM | 3:35.49 | 3:13.19 | 2:50.99 | 2:43.59 | 2:36.19 | 2:28.69 |
Motivational swim times by age - girls under 11 - 12 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 33.59 | 31.29 | 28.99 | 27.79 | 26.59 | 25.49 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:13.59 | 1:08.29 | 1:03.09 | 1:00.49 | 57.79 | 55.19 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:40.39 | 2:28.99 | 2:17.49 | 2:11.79 | 2:05.99 | 2:00.29 |
| 500 Y Free | 7:08.79 | 6:38.19 | 6:07.59 | 5:52.19 | 5:36.89 | 5:21.59 |
| 1000 Y Free | 14:48.09 | 13:44.69 | 12:41.19 | 12:09.49 | 11:37.79 | 11:06.09 |
| 1650 Y Free | 24:53.99 | 23:07.29 | 21:20.59 | 20:27.19 | 19:33.89 | 18:40.49 |
| 50 Y Back | 38.09 | 35.39 | 32.69 | 31.29 | 29.99 | 28.59 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:24.79 | 1:18.09 | 1:11.39 | 1:08.09 | 1:04.69 | 1:01.39 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:56.59 | 2:43.99 | 2:31.39 | 2:25.09 | 2:18.79 | 2:12.49 |
| 50 Y Breast | 42.99 | 39.99 | 36.89 | 35.39 | 33.79 | 32.29 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:34.09 | 1:27.19 | 1:20.19 | 1:16.69 | 1:13.19 | 1:09.79 |
| 200 Y Breast | 3:20.89 | 3:06.59 | 2:52.19 | 2:45.09 | 2:37.89 | 2:30.69 |
| 50 Y Fly | 36.49 | 33.89 | 31.29 | 29.99 | 28.69 | 27.39 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:24.39 | 1:17.59 | 1:10.89 | 1:07.49 | 1:04.19 | 1:00.79 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:59.99 | 2:47.19 | 2:34.29 | 2:27.89 | 2:21.39 | 2:14.99 |
| 100 Y IM | 1:24.09 | 1:18.09 | 1:12.09 | 1:09.09 | 1:06.09 | 1:03.09 |
| 200 Y IM | 3:00.19 | 2:47.29 | 2:34.49 | 2:27.99 | 2:21.59 | 2:15.19 |
| 400 Y IM | 6:24.19 | 5:56.79 | 5:29.29 | 5:15.59 | 5:01.89 | 4:48.19 |
Motivational swim times by age - boys under 11 - 12 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 32.59 | 30.29 | 27.89 | 26.79 | 25.59 | 24.49 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:10.99 | 1:05.89 | 1:00.89 | 58.29 | 55.79 | 53.29 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:34.59 | 2:23.49 | 2:12.49 | 2:06.99 | 2:01.39 | 1:55.89 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:57.29 | 6:27.49 | 5:57.69 | 5:42.79 | 5:27.89 | 5:12.99 |
| 1000 Y Free | 14:32.59 | 13:30.19 | 12:27.89 | 11:56.79 | 11:25.59 | 10:54.39 |
| 1650 Y Free | 24:21.89 | 22:37.49 | 20:52.99 | 20:00.79 | 19:08.59 | 18:16.39 |
| 50 Y Back | 37.89 | 34.99 | 32.09 | 30.69 | 29.29 | 27.79 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:22.19 | 1:15.69 | 1:09.19 | 1:05.99 | 1:02.79 | 59.49 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:51.99 | 2:39.69 | 2:27.39 | 2:21.29 | 2:15.19 | 2:08.99 |
| 50 Y Breast | 42.89 | 39.49 | 36.09 | 34.39 | 32.69 | 31.09 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:31.39 | 1:24.49 | 1:17.49 | 1:13.99 | 1:10.49 | 1:06.99 |
| 200 Y Breast | 3:14.09 | 3:00.19 | 2:46.39 | 2:39.39 | 2:32.49 | 2:25.59 |
| 50 Y Fly | 37.09 | 34.19 | 31.19 | 29.69 | 28.19 | 26.79 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:22.89 | 1:16.09 | 1:09.29 | 1:05.89 | 1:02.39 | 58.99 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:53.19 | 2:40.79 | 2:28.39 | 2:22.19 | 2:16.09 | 2:09.89 |
| 100 Y IM | 1:20.89 | 1:14.99 | 1:09.09 | 1:06.19 | 1:03.29 | 1:00.29 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:57.29 | 2:43.99 | 2:30.69 | 2:23.99 | 2:17.29 | 2:10.69 |
| 400 Y IM | 6:13.09 | 5:46.39 | 5:19.79 | 5:06.49 | 4:53.19 | 4:39.79 |
Motivational swim times by age - girls under 13 - 14 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 32.59 | 30.19 | 27.89 | 26.79 | 25.59 | 24.39 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:10.59 | 1:05.49 | 1:00.49 | 57.99 | 55.49 | 52.89 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:32.09 | 2:21.29 | 2:10.39 | 2:04.99 | 1:59.49 | 1:54.09 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:47.79 | 6:18.69 | 5:49.59 | 5:34.99 | 5:20.39 | 5:05.89 |
| 1000 Y Free | 14:01.99 | 13:01.79 | 12:01.69 | 11:31.59 | 11:01.59 | 10:31.49 |
| 1650 Y Free | 23:23.49 | 21:43.19 | 20:02.99 | 19:12.89 | 18:22.79 | 17:32.59 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:16.69 | 1:11.19 | 1:05.69 | 1:02.99 | 1:00.19 | 57.49 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:46.79 | 2:34.89 | 2:22.99 | 2:17.09 | 2:11.09 | 2:05.09 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:27.99 | 1:21.69 | 1:15.39 | 1:12.29 | 1:09.09 | 1:05.99 |
| 200 Y Breast | 3:10.89 | 2:57.29 | 2:43.69 | 2:36.79 | 2:29.99 | 2:23.19 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:16.39 | 1:10.89 | 1:05.49 | 1:02.6 | 59.99 | 57.29 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:48.99 | 2:36.89 | 2:24.89 | 2:18.79 | 2:12.79 | 2:06.79 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:49.79 | 2:37.59 | 2:25.49 | 2:19.49 | 2:13.39 | 2:07.29 |
| 400 Y IM | 6:03.59 | 5:37.59 | 5:11.69 | 4:58.69 | 4:45.69 | 4:32.69 |
Motivational swim times by age - boys under 13 - 14 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 29.89 | 27.79 | 25.69 | 24.59 | 23.49 | 22.49 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:05.59 | 1:00.89 | 56.29 | 53.89 | 51.59 | 49.19 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:22.99 | 2:12.79 | 2:02.59 | 1:57.49 | 1:52.39 | 1:47.29 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:26.59 | 5:58.99 | 5:31.39 | 5:17.59 | 5:03.79 | 4:49.99 |
| 1000 Y Free | 13:21.19 | 12:23.89 | 11:26.69 | 10:58.09 | 10:29.49 | 10:00.89 |
| 1650 Y Free | 22:18.89 | 20:43.19 | 19:07.59 | 18:19.79 | 17:31.99 | 16:44.19 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:11.49 | 1:06.39 | 1:01.29 | 58.69 | 56.19 | 53.59 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:36.29 | 2:25.09 | 2:13.99 | 2:08.39 | 2:02.79 | 1:57.19 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:21.29 | 1:15.49 | 1:09.69 | 1:06.79 | 1:03.89 | 1:00.99 |
| 200 Y Breast | 2:56.59 | 2:43.99 | 2:31.39 | 2:25.09 | 2:18.79 | 2:12.49 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:11.19 | 1:06.09 | 1:00.99 | 58.49 | 55.89 | 53.39 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:38.19 | 2:26.89 | 2:15.59 | 2:09.99 | 2:04.29 | 1:58.69 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:39.99 | 2:28.49 | 2:17.09 | 2:11.39 | 2:05.69 | 1:59.99 |
| 400 Y IM | 5:41.49 | 5:17.09 | 4:52.69 | 4:40.49 | 4:28.29 | 4:16.09 |
Motivational swim times by age - girls under 15 - 16 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 31.79 | 29.49 | 27.19 | 26.09 | 24.99 | 23.79 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:08.89 | 1:03.99 | 58.99 | 56.59 | 54.09 | 51.69 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:29.39 | 2:18.69 | 2:08.09 | 2:02.69 | 1:57.39 | 1:52.09 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:40.59 | 6:11.99 | 5:43.39 | 5:29.09 | 5:14.79 | 5:00.49 |
| 1000 Y Free | 13:49.19 | 12:49.99 | 11:50.79 | 11:21.19 | 10:51.59 | 10:21.89 |
| 1650 Y Free | 23:05.19 | 21:26.19 | 19:47.29 | 18:57.79 | 18:08.39 | 17:18.89 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:14.69 | 1:09.39 | 1:03.99 | 1:01.39 | 58.69 | 55.99 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:42.99 | 2:31.39 | 2:19.69 | 2:13.89 | 2:08.09 | 2:02.29 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:25.89 | 1:19.69 | 1:13.59 | 1:10.49 | 1:07.49 | 1:04.39 |
| 200 Y Breast | 3:05.99 | 2:52.79 | 2:39.49 | 2:32.79 | 2:26.19 | 2:19.49 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:14.69 | 1:09.39 | 1:03.99 | 1:01.39 | 58.69 | 55.99 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:45.29 | 2:33.49 | 2:21.69 | 2:15.79 | 2:09.89 | 2:03.99 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:46.79 | 2:34.89 | 2:22.99 | 2:16.99 | 2:10.99 | 2:05.09 |
| 400 Y IM | 5:55.89 | 5:30.49 | 5:04.99 | 4:52.29 | 4:39.59 | 4:26.89 |
Motivational swim times by age - boys under 15 - 16 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 28.39 | 26.39 | 24.39 | 23.29 | 22.29 | 21.29 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:02.39 | 57.89 | 53.49 | 51.19 | 48.99 | 46.79 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:16.49 | 2:06.79 | 1:56.99 | 1:52.09 | 1:47.29 | 1:42.39 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:10.59 | 5:44.09 | 5:17.69 | 5:04.39 | 4:51.19 | 4:37.99 |
| 1000 Y Free | 12:52.99 | 11:57.79 | 11:02.59 | 10:34.99 | 10:07.39 | 9:39.79 |
| 1650 Y Free | 21:35.39 | 20:02.89 | 18:30.39 | 17:44.09 | 16:57.79 | 16:11.59 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:08.09 | 1:03.19 | 58.39 | 55.99 | 53.49 | 51.09 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:27.99 | 2:17.49 | 2:06.89 | 2:01.59 | 1:56.29 | 1:50.99 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:16.49 | 1:11.09 | 1:05.59 | 1:02.89 | 1:00.19 | 57.39 |
| 200 Y Breast | 2:48.19 | 2:36.19 | 2:24.19 | 2:18.19 | 2:12.19 | 2:06.19 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:07.49 | 1:02.69 | 57.89 | 55.49 | 53.09 | 50.59 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:31.29 | 2:20.49 | 2:09.69 | 2:04.29 | 1:58.89 | 1:53.49 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:31.69 | 2:20.89 | 2:10.09 | 2:04.69 | 1:59.19 | 1:53.79 |
| 400 Y IM | 5:26.99 | 5:03.69 | 4:40.29 | 4:28.59 | 4:16.99 | 4:05.29 |
Motivational swim times by age - girls under 17 - 18 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 31.39 | 29.09 | 26.89 | 25.79 | 24.59 | 23.49 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:08.19 | 1:03.29 | 58.49 | 55.99 | 53.59 | 51.19 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:28.49 | 2:17.89 | 2:07.29 | 2:01.99 | 1:56.69 | 1:51.39 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:35.69 | 6:07.39 | 5:39.19 | 5:24.99 | 5:10.89 | 4:56.79 |
| 1000 Y Free | 13:46.19 | 12:47.19 | 11:48.19 | 11:18.69 | 10:49.19 | 10:19.69 |
| 1650 Y Free | 22:48.49 | 21:10.69 | 19:32.99 | 18:44.09 | 17:55.19 | 17:06.39 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:13.69 | 1:08.49 | 1:03.19 | 1:00.59 | 57.89 | 55.29 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:39.79 | 2:28.39 | 2:16.99 | 2:11.29 | 2:05.59 | 1:59.89 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:24.89 | 1:18.79 | 1:12.79 | 1:09.79 | 1:06.69 | 1:03.69 |
| 200 Y Breast | 3:03.79 | 2:50.69 | 2:37.59 | 2:30.99 | 2:24.39 | 2:17.89 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:13.59 | 1:08.29 | 1:03.09 | 11:00.49 | 57.79 | 55.19 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:43.49 | 2:31.89 | 2:20.19 | 2:14.29 | 2:08.49 | 2:02.69 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:44.39 | 2:32.69 | 2:20.89 | 2:15.09 | 2:09.19 | 2:03.29 |
| 400 Y IM | 5:51.19 | 5:26.09 | 5:00.99 | 4:48.49 | 4:35.89 | 4:23.39 |
Motivational swim times by age - boys under 17 - 18 yrs
| B Min | BB Min | A Min | AA Min | AAA Min | AAAA Min | |
| 50 Y Free | 27.89 | 25.89 | 23.89 | 22.89 | 21.89 | 20.89 |
| 100 Y Free | 1:00.99 | 56.69 | 52.29 | 50.09 | 47.99 | 45.79 |
| 200 Y Free | 2:13.09 | 2:03.59 | 1:54.09 | 1:49.29 | 1:44.59 | 1:39.79 |
| 500 Y Free | 6:02.19 | 5:36.29 | 5:10.39 | 4:57.49 | 4:44.59 | 4:31.59 |
| 1000 Y Free | 12:43.39 | 11:48.89 | 10:54.39 | 10:27.09 | 9:59.79 | 9:32.59 |
| 1650 Y Free | 21:08.59 | 19:37.99 | 18:07.39 | 17:22.09 | 16:36.79 | 15:51.49 |
| 100 Y Back | 1:06.19 | 1:01.49 | 56.69 | 54.39 | 51.99 | 49.69 |
| 200 Y Back | 2:24.89 | 2:14.59 | 2:04.19 | 1:58.99 | 1:53.89 | 1:48.69 |
| 100 Y Breast | 1:15.09 | 1:09.79 | 1:04.39 | 1:01.69 | 58.99 | 56.39 |
| 200 Y Breast | 2:43.29 | 2:31.69 | 2:19.99 | 2:14.19 | 2:08.29 | 2:02.49 |
| 100 Y Fly | 1:05.89 | 1:01.19 | 56.49 | 54.09 | 51.79 | 49.39 |
| 200 Y Fly | 2:27.49 | 2:16.99 | 2:06.39 | 2:01.19 | 1:55.89 | 1:50.59 |
| 200 Y IM | 2:27.69 | 2:17.09 | 2:06.59 | 2:01.29 | 1:55.99 | 1:50.79 |
| 400 Y IM | 5:19.89 | 4:56.99 | 4:34.19 | 4:22.69 | 4:11.29 | 3:59.89 |
Motivational swim times can be used to set realistic goals and motivate swimmers of all levels.
What factors affect swimming times?
A range of factors can affect your swimming times, including age, gender, abilities, and pool size. Age and gender impact swimming times significantly, but ability and pool size can also make a difference. Use this swim pace calculator to work out your current swimming pace (in various pool sizes) and what your pace should be.
Technique
Efficient stroke technique is essential for optimal performance and swimming speed. Poor technique can cause drag and energy loss which will affect your average swimming pace.
Swimming ability
The more experienced the swimmer, the faster the swim times. Generally, beginner swimmers will take longer to cover the same distance compared to a novice or intermediate swimmer.
Age
In general, younger swimmers tend to be faster than older swimmers. As you age, your muscles lose some of their power and flexibility, making it more difficult to swim as fast as you used to. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t swim fast when you are older.
With regular practice and exercise, you can maintain your speed or even get faster, regardless of age. It’s also a great form of exercise and you can lose weight depending on the number of calories burned swimming.
Swimming laps versus racing laps
If you are swimming laps for exercise, you may not be trying to swim as fast as you can. In this case, your swimming times will be slower than if you were racing laps.
Racing laps, on the other hand, is all about swimming as fast as you can. When you are racing, your muscles work harder, and your heart rate increases, which can help you swim faster.
So, if you are trying to improve your swimming times, focusing on racing laps rather than swimming laps for exercise is important. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should never swim laps for exercise – just that you should focus on racing laps if you want to swim faster.
Starts and turns
A powerful, streamlined start goes a long way to improving your average swimming speed. You will also need to turn at the end of each lap when swimming.
Turns can be tricky, especially if swimming in a crowded pool. If you want to swim faster, it is crucial to practice your turns so that you can do them quickly and smoothly.
Water temperature
The water temperature directly affects the swimmer’s performance. In general, warmer water is easier to swim in than colder water.
The reason is that cold water can tighten your muscles, making swimming more difficult. Cold water can also make you feel more tired, slowing you down.
So, if you are trying to swim fast, it is best to do it in warmer water. Of course, this isn’t always possible – but it is something to keep in mind if you are trying to swim fast times.
Water conditions
Open water conditions are usually more difficult to swim in than pool conditions. This is because there are usually more waves and less visibility in open water, making swimming more difficult.
Additionally, pools are usually more controlled environments, so the water is calmer and clearer. As such, it is usually easier to swim fast times in a pool than in open water.
Outdoor vs. indoor pools can also make a difference. Outdoor pools are usually more difficult to swim in because the weather can be unpredictable. For instance, if it is windy, the water can be choppy, making it more difficult to swim.
Additionally, outdoor pools can be colder than indoor ones, making it more difficult to swim fast. However, some people prefer swimming outdoors because they find it more enjoyable.
It is up to you to decide whether you want to try to swim fast times in an outdoor or indoor pool.
There are several factors that can affect average swimming times: technique, swimming ability, age, swimming laps versus racing laps, starts and turns, water temperature, and water conditions.
How to improve your average swim time
Improving your average pace for swimming involves taking a holistic approach by refining your technique, building endurance and strength, and incorporating effective training strategies. While you can improve your swimming pace on your own, finding a swimming coach can go a long way in helping you swim faster.
Here are some tips to help you improve your average swimming time:
Work on your swimming technique
The more streamlined your body is, the more efficiently you will move through the water. Focus on keeping your body streamlined by maintaining a straight body position and minimizing unnecessary movements.
Work on proper body rotation along your spine with each stroke. This helps improve your reach and overall efficiency.
Practice effective arm movements by working on a high elbow catch and a strong pull through the water.
Increase your swimming endurance
Add interval training and drills into your training to build endurance. Swim at higher intensities for shorter periods and then a rest interval.
Include longer-distance swims in your swim workouts to build stamina and endurance.
Improve your strength
Build strength by including resistance training in your training routine. Strength in the core, shoulders, and legs will improve your power and endurance in the water.
Focus on breathing
Breath control technique is essential to optimize your oxygen intake and utilization of oxygen during swimming. Practice breathing on both sides to balance out your swimming stroke and keep a steady breathing pattern.
Work on your starts and turns
Practice strong, streamlined starts to get the most out of your initial start and speed. Work on efficient flip turns to reduce the time spent at the wall.
Train consistently
Regular practice is key to increasing your fitness, endurance, and swimming ability. Vary your swim workouts and gradually increase the intensity and the duration.
You can increase your average swimming speed by improving your technique, building endurance and strength, learning proper breathing techniques and training consistently.
Summary
- The average swim time by age to swim 25 yards is about 30 – 45 seconds.
- Swimming time for 25m is between 25 – 40 seconds.
- The average swim speed for 50m is 40 – 60 seconds depending on swimming level and ability.
- The average 100yd swim time is 01:40 – 02:00.
- The average 100m swim time by age is 01:45 – 02:15.
- Use the motivational swim times by age to set realistic goals and to motivate swimmers.
