Owing to its ability to help you work out more efficiently and see faster results, interval training has gained well-deserved popularity with runners at all levels of experience.
In addition, run/walk intervals have proven to be the best way for beginners to learn to run. This method, popularized by Jeff Galloway, is used in most Couch to 5k (C25k) beginner training programs.
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to keep track of when it’s time to switch between intervals while trying to focus on your run. That’s why we’ve reviewed the best interval timers and apps, which take care of the logistics, leaving you to reap the benefits of interval training with less pressure.
If you’re short on time, we recommend the Gymboss Minimax interval timer. It’s simple to use, you can save up to 20 different programs, and you can program complex intervals for just about any intervals you want.
Check them all out and choose yours if you’re into interval training!
| Best Interval Timer |
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Gymboss miniMAX
Best Timer App
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Best Watch Timer:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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1. Gymboss Minimax
This handy little timer can be easily clipped onto your waistband or collar with the included belt clip. You can purchase a wristband or arm sleeve to keep it more secure if you’re worried about dropping it while you’re exercising.
What We Like
One of the best things about this nifty little interval timer is that you can set various interval lengths within one program.
That means that instead of having only 30-second intervals, for example, you can set 30-second intervals for the first 10 minutes, then switch to 45-second intervals for a bit, and go down to 20 seconds as you cool down.
Apart from having the ability to set up to 25 different intervals within one program, you can save up to 20 unique programs on the device, ready for use at any time.
Other features include a stopwatch function, a clock, and chime and vibration notifications for your intervals. You can also choose from 4 different notification lengths (1 second, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, and 9 seconds). So you really can’t miss them!
Powered by an AAA battery and with a nice compact size, it’s really easy to wear and use. It’s also sweat and impact-resistant.
Be careful when you’re running or exercising on hard surfaces, though. If this timer falls off your waistband, there’s a chance of it breaking.
Why We Like It
This little device allows you to set completely customizable intervals, which is a huge pro. It’s also super convenient and easy to use.
PROS:
- Ability to program your own complex intervals
- Choose from 4 notification lengths
- Can save up to 20 programs
- Easy to use
Top Watch Interval Timer
2. Garmin Forerunner 55
If you’re a Garmin fan, chances are you’re going to like this one. It’s a dedicated running watch with all the features you need for a great interval workout.
What We Like
This watch removes the need to carry a separate device for your interval training. It does a great job of doing the few things runners really need – tracking your run, monitoring heart rate – and keeping track of your intervals.
It’s great for newbies to interval training, as it comes with pre-programmed interval workouts. Once you’re used to it, you can design your own based on your preferences.
You can create interval workouts using either distance or time intervals, which is versatile and easy for anything you want to do. Basic workouts can be created directly on the watch, and if you want something a little more advanced, you can just create it on Garmin’s phone app.
You can also choose between audio and vibration notifications for your intervals, which is handy if you are wearing headphones or running in a noisy spot.
You should know up front that this isn’t one of Garmin’s fanciest offerings, but it does have a bunch of interesting and useful features on it, such as PacePro, Recovery Time, and women’s health tracking (amongst many others).
Why We Like It
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a pretty feature-rich watch for its price, and it’s really nice and versatile in its interval settings. It gets a big thumbs-up for the ability to choose from time or distance intervals.
What’s New
Quite a few minor details related to training have been added to this model vs the Forerunner 45. But the most notable changes are the improved battery life and pool swim tracking, including distance, lap counting, and stroke count.
PROS:
- Create or choose a pre-programmed interval session
- Vibrating and audio cue for intervals
- Intervals can be based on distance or time
- Can create workouts from the Watch
Best Heart Rate Monitor and Interval Timer:
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3. Polar Unite
Heart rate is a big and important part of interval training, and we recommend the Polar Unite if you want to do interval running and keep an eye on your heart rate at the same time.
What We Like
This watch uses optical heart rate monitoring and is known to be pretty accurate. It has a pretty decent interval timer function, which you can set based on either distance or time, and you can set two different timers.
There are 100 different sport modes built into the watch, each using a specific algorithm to keep up with its reputation for accuracy. It also has a built-in fitness test that uses the HRM to estimate your VO2 max.
One of the best features is Fitspark, a workout recommendation tool that uses your training strain and recovery to suggest daily exercise across cardio, strength, and mobility sectors.
Note that there’s a basic GPS function, but it’s not built into the watch and requires a smartphone and the accompanying app to work.
Why We Like It
Polar is known for quality products, and the Unite is an excellent continuous heart rate monitor that also includes interval training, recovery, and training effort metrics, and workout recommendations.
PROS:
- Optical heart rate monitoring
- Can set two timers for your interval workouts
- Fitspark workout recommendation tool
- Features 100 sport modes
CONS:
- GPS needs a phone to work
Disclaimer:
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