With an interval timer, you can set fixed durations for high-intensity interval training like cardio, tabata, and so on. You can even use it to record the race time. Since it is such a crucial piece of equipment for athletes, sportspersons, gym trainers, and others, settling with a random product is not acceptable. You need to get the best one from the list, and that's where our buying guide will come in handy. Below, we have shed light on everything you need to know about how to find the best interval timer.
How Many Types Of Interval Timers Are There?
The interval timers are mainly classified into two types based on how they have been programmed.
1. A box-style timer is mainly used in boxing matches where you will get pre-set timing options like three minutes, thirty seconds, one minute, and so on. You can set the time using a switch. Once it is over, an alarm will go off, and the corresponding light bulb will glow.
2. In a digital timer, the intervals can be set on your own choice. They are programmable, and hence, you will have complete control of all the modes.
What Parameters Should You Consider To Pick The Best Interval Timer?
Size
If you want to have an interval timer for personal use, going for a smaller-sized product will be a more feasible idea. Small timers can be carried everywhere without a fuss, like running, working out outdoors, jogging, and so on. But the same can't be done with the large timers you usually see at gyms and in fighting arenas like a boxing ring, a karate arena, and more. Furthermore, they are mainly used at places where many people can view the time easily.
Mounting System
The mounting system is very crucial to consider because, just like a normal clock, you also need to keep this timer somewhere. If you want to have this device for yourself only, you can look for a product that can be clipped to your dress or worn as an amulet around your upper arm. However, you will have to stop between the exercises to check the time by either bringing your arm forward or detaching it from your dress. A wall-mounted interval timer can solve this problem because you can view the time in between your workout sessions without having to stop in between.
Alarm Sound
Every interval timer is designed to produce sounds when the clock stops. Different products generate different kinds of sound. For example, a digital timer can have a beeping sound, whereas box-style products can produce bell ringing tunes. So, you need to select the right product based on the kind of sound that suits your requirements. Also, the loudness and shrillness of the tunes need to be taken into account. If a timer needs to be kept in a large room or hall, the sound should be loud enough to be audible to everyone. Similarly, for a smaller area or personal use, the loudness shouldn't be much because that can disturb your concentration.
Display Size
As different timers have varied display sizes, you must choose the product carefully. An interval timer meant to be kept in a gym, a training area, or an indoor playing court should have a large display so that everyone can see the clock. On the other hand, products with smaller displays are designed for personal use.
Remote Controller
Operating an interval timer with your hands is not possible when it is mounted on a wall or kept on a table. So, you need a remote controller to set the time, change the timer settings, switch on the power, or change the display effortlessly. Another important factor that needs to be considered is the remote controller's range because it will determine the maximum distance from where you can control the timer.
Modes
Some interval timers will only allow you to set workout time and rest time, like 5 minutes for exercises and 30 seconds for a break. However, you can also find products that have multiple modes—a timer, a clock, and a stopwatch. In the timer mode, you can set particular durations for exercise and break while the clock mode will show you the current time. A stopwatch mode will be helpful to calculate the time taken to reach the endpoint in a race, like swimming, running, and more.
How Can You Use The Interval Timer?
- After you switch on the device, the zero on the extreme left will blink. It means that you can change its value for setting the time.
- On the screen of an interval timer, you will find four zeros divided into two pairs by a colon.
- The left side will denote minutes, while the seconds will be displayed on the right side of the colon, just like a clock.
- To set the alarm, you need to press the “alarm” button and then set the time.
What Is The Average Cost Of The Interval Timer?
As there are two types of interval timers, their price varies significantly. Usually, the cost ranges from $10.99 to $129.99. If you are going for a simple digital timer used mainly for recording the race time, it will cost around $10.99 to $13. On the other hand, the boxed-styled timers are the costliest since they have an alarm system, LED bulbs, and several other features.
Interval Timer FAQ
Q. How can I wear the interval timer around my neck?
A. For wearing the timer around your neck, you need to use a lanyard. However, it can be used only with a digital timer because you need a closed hook to slide the lanyard.
Q. What are the ideal times I should set in the interval timer for practicing core exercises?
A. Core exercises are intense, and hence, you need to set the times in the interval timer properly. You can keep the workout time up to 5 minutes for each set and a resting period of 1-minute maximum.
Q. Can I operate an interval timer using my phone?
A. No, you cannot operate the interval timer with your phone. However, some products can be controlled by a remote.