Comparison

Swim Start vs GymAware V2

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Swim Start

This app simulates swimming race starts with customizable audio cues and countdown timers. It allows for fixed interval starts or a set number of repetitions, with adjustable pauses between signals. It can also sync with external pace clocks and offers remote control functionality for multiple devices.

Highlights
  • Customizable 'Take Your Marks' and 'GO' sounds
  • Adjustable repeat intervals and starter pauses
  • Continuous or limited race repetitions
  • Countdown timer options (Now, Red/Black top)
  • Sync with external pace clocks
  • Remote control and replication via Bluetooth
Features
Read full description

The Swim Start app is a training aid for race start practice or simulation. Start swim groups at fixed intervals with "Take Your Marks" and "GO" sounds. Use an external speaker attached to an iPhone or iPad for improved sound volume. Select built-in or custom "Take Your Marks" and 'Go' signal sounds. Enable continuous mode or limit to a specified number of race repetitions. Select Repeat Interval. Default is every 10 seconds. Adjust the fixed starters pause between Take Your Marks and Go sound. The pause range is 0.5 to 2 seconds. Alternativly choose random starters pause. Start button gives three options: Now, Red or Black top. Where the countdown starts at either 5 seconds, seconds to next Red top or Black top respectively. "Go" sound signal heard when countdown reaches zero. Sync Swim Start swim clock to an external pace clock. The Remote Control and Replication feature allows several remote iOS devices to connect to a Primary iOS device (main starters voice). - Multiple remote iOS devices will replicate the Primary. - Remote units can start/stop Primary. - Primary will start/stop all connected remote units. - Range can be up to 100m depending on obstacles. - Only available on newer iOS devices with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) hardware.

About

GymAware V2

Features
Read full description

GymAware is the trusted name in Velocity Based Training (VBT), relied on by elite sporting teams, researchers, high schools, gyms, and strength professionals for over 23 years. Built on the proven accuracy of our GymAware RS and FLEX hardware, GymAware delivers the most advanced, precise, and coach-ready VBT solutions available. Now introducing GymAware v2, a new app built by the same team behind the original, designed to bring users a faster, more intuitive, and highly customizable experience. Whether you’re new to GymAware or a long-time user, this app is the best way to access our latest features and innovations in VBT. While the original app remains available for uninterrupted use, GymAware v2 represents the future of VBT. GymAware v2 is built from the ground up to deliver best in class VBT functionality. Use real-time velocity, power, and bar path feedback to guide training decisions. Set and monitor velocity zones, receive instant visual and audio cues, and track performance with unmatched accuracy. Feature Highlights: Real time feedback: Measure bar speed, power, and bar path live during lifts. Get immediate cues to adjust technique or load. Workout Builder: Plan and manage training sessions with sets, reps, supersets, warmups and cool downs. Built through GymAware Cloud for seamless syncing across devices. 1RM Protocols and Performance Testing: Access in built 1RM testing protocols, force velocity profiling, and fatigue analysis. Ideal for tracking progress and informing load decisions. Leaderboards and athlete engagement: Create live leaderboards to encourage competition and drive intent during sessions. View results by team, squad, or individual. Advanced data and reporting tools: Export performance data, estimate 1RMs, review trends, and integrate with Athlete Management Systems (AMS) via API. Cloud integration: Store, organize, and review athlete data via GymAware Cloud. Manage squads, rosters, and performance history in one secure platform. Coaching tools: Efficiently manage large groups. Mass import athletes, create squads, apply targets, and edit data with ease. Validated VBT technology This app exclusively integrates with GymAware RS and FLEX devices. GymAware RS is a Linear Position Transducer (LPT) with angle sensor, known for its reliability and accuracy, validated by numerous independent scientific studies. FLEX is our compact laser based sensor, independently verified for accuracy and compatible with the GymAware iPad app. To use this app, a GymAware RS and or FLEX device is required. Visit www.gymaware.com to learn more about the number one VBT in the market. For additional Cloud and Subscription terms of service, please visit https://gymaware.kinetic.com.au/?page=eula

Screenshots

Swim Start4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is update cadence: GymAware V2 at every 2 weeks against Swim Start's every 3 months. Swim Start's advantage is device support (3 vs 1) and iOS requirement (9.3 vs 15.0). On price, ads and in-app purchases there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Swim Start ships an update every 3 months, GymAware V2 every 2 weeks. The most recent releases landed on October 24, 2026 and October 28, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
Swim Start versus GymAware V2: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterSwim StartGymAware V2
PriceFreeFree
Rating3.3 (6 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews57.1% of reviews—
Number of ratings6 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 3 monthsEvery 2 weeks — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNoNo
MonetizationFree—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPod — betteriPad
Requires iOS9.3 — better15.0
Further details — not scored
Size19 MB87 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperDavid MayesKinetic Performance

In-app purchases

None

Swim Start

No in-app purchases

None

GymAware V2

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is Swim Start free?
Swim Start is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is GymAware V2 free?
GymAware V2 is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do Swim Start or GymAware V2 have ads?
Neither Swim Start nor GymAware V2 shows ads.
Which is updated more often, Swim Start or GymAware V2?
Swim Start ships an update every 3 months, and GymAware V2 every 2 weeks. Most recently, Swim Start was updated on October 24, 2026 and GymAware V2 on October 28, 2026.

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