START REACTION TEST

Sprint Start Reaction Time Test

Measure the time from the gun to your first movement with your camera. Review your start video too.

Under 0.100 s is shown as a false-start reference.

* For training reference only.

What is reaction time?

Reaction time is how long it takes your body to begin moving after a signal. This page uses your phone camera to measure the time from the starting gun to your first start movement.

How to measure your reaction time

  1. 1

    Place your phone in portrait or landscape orientation.

  2. 2

    Adjust the camera so your full body is in frame.

  3. 3

    Tap “Check Reaction Time,” then tap “Start Measurement.”

  4. 4

    After the test, review your reaction time and start video.

What is the average reaction time?

Reaction time varies depending on how it is measured. As a rough guide, one simple-reaction study found averages of about 0.27 seconds for non-athletes and 0.24 seconds for athletes. At the World Championships, average 100 m start reaction times were about 0.17 seconds for men and 0.18 seconds for women.

General benchmark
Non-athletes
About 0.27 s
Athletes
Simple reaction test
About 0.24 s
World-class
Men's 100 m
About 0.17 s
World-class
Women's 100 m
About 0.18 s

* These figures use different measurement methods, so treat them as general benchmarks. Simple reaction study · 100 m World Championships study

Is a reaction time under 0.100 seconds a false start?

In track and field, a reaction time under 0.100 seconds is treated as a false start threshold. This tool also displays “FALSE START” when it detects a reaction under 0.100 seconds. Because the measurement uses a phone camera, it cannot be used for official competition decisions.

World Athletics sprint rules

Review your start form with video

Along with your reaction time, the tool records a short start video from about 1 second before the gun to 3 seconds after it. Use the video to review your set position, first step, and how quickly your upper body rises.

Practice your starts Use the Starter Pistol →