A free online workout timer for every training style — HIIT intervals, Tabata circuits, gym rest periods, and full-session countdowns. Polytimer runs instantly in any browser tab, no app download or sign-up needed. Use fullscreen mode for large digits visible across the gym, or PiP to float the timer above your workout video.
How to Set Up Your Workout Timer
For a full session: click the Countdown tab and enter your workout duration (e.g. 45 minutes). Press play.
For interval training: switch to the Multiple Timers tab. Add a work timer (e.g. 40s) and a rest timer (e.g. 20s). Enable Repeat on both so they restart automatically.
Enable Fullscreen or PiP for hands-free visibility during exercise.
Turn on an alarm sound from the Sounds drawer so you hear the transitions without watching the screen.
1 Hour Timer — long training session or endurance workout
Workout Types and Recommended Timer Settings
HIIT — 20s work / 10s rest or 40s work / 20s rest using Multiple Timers
Tabata — 20s work / 10s rest × 8 rounds = 4 minutes. Use the 4 minute timer with Repeat.
Strength training rest — 60–90 seconds between sets. Use the 1 minute or 2 minute timer with Repeat.
Circuit training — Multiple Timers tab with one timer per station.
Cardio session — single countdown for the full session duration with End Time enabled.
Yoga / stretching — set individual holds with the 30s or 60s preset and Repeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up a workout timer online?
Open Polytimer's Countdown tab and enter your workout duration. For intervals, use Multiple Timers to run a work and rest timer side by side. Press play or Space to start. The alarm sounds when time is up.
What is the best timer for HIIT workouts?
For HIIT, use the Multiple Timers tab — run a 20-second work timer and a 10-second rest timer simultaneously. Each has its own alarm and Repeat toggle, so both restart automatically after each round. You can focus entirely on the workout without touching the screen between sets.
Can I use a workout timer for Tabata?
Yes. Tabata is 8 rounds of 20 seconds on and 10 seconds off (4 minutes total). Use the 4 minute timer for the full circuit, or set up 20s and 10s timers in Multiple Timers for individual phase control.
Can I keep the workout timer visible during exercise?
Yes. Use Fullscreen mode for large digits visible from across a room. Or click PiP to float the timer above other apps — useful when following a workout video on the same screen. PiP requires Chrome 116+.
What timer should I use for rest periods between sets?
For strength training rest periods, use the 1 minute, 2 minute, or 3 minute countdown. Enable Repeat so the rest timer automatically restarts after each set — no screen interaction needed during your workout.