247SportTools
Swimming · Training

Critical Swim Speed Calculator

Estimate your Critical Swim Speed (CSS) — your threshold pace — from a 400m and 200m time trial.

Last updated: 3 August 2026

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, FA Level 2 Football Coach

Critical Swim Speed

Critical Swim Speed
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Top picks compared

PickProductBest for
Top pick Waterproof Swim Watch Time your 400m and 200m trials accurately and track CSS over time. Check price →
Option Tempo Trainer Pro In-cap beeper to hold your CSS pace precisely during threshold sets. Check price →
Option Swim Training Log Journal Record time trials and CSS sets to chart your threshold improvement. Check price →

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Frequently asked questions

How do I use CSS in training?

Swim threshold sets at your CSS pace per 100m, do speed work faster than CSS, and easy/recovery swims slower. Re-test every few weeks to track improvement.