Structured run-walk workouts, track intervals, and tempo sessions are easier to follow with a dedicated timer. The right model keeps your focus on pacing instead of checking a phone or wristwatch.
We’ve gathered 10 interval timers from Gymboss, including stopwatch models, upgraded Plus versions, and Charge options, so you can choose the features and format that fit your training routine.
Best 10 Interval Timers for Runners Picks for 2026
Best Compact Pick
Gymboss Interval Timer Black/Blue
- Times one or two intervals from 2 seconds to 99 minutes
- Repeats intervals up to 99 times with chime or vibration
- Compact, sweat- and impact-resistant body with belt clip
Best For: Run-walk training and repeat running intervals
Best Wearable Bundle
Charge Interval Timer with Watch Strap
- Includes timer and secure wrist strap
- Rechargeable battery with backlit LCD
- Weatherproof for rain and sweat, not submersion
Best For: Runners who want vibrating alerts on the wrist
Best Color Option
Gymboss Interval Timer Violet/Pink
- Compact timer for one or two programmed intervals
- Chime and vibration alerts with up to 99 repeats
- Sweat- and impact-resistant clip-on design
Best For: Runners seeking a colorful, dedicated clip-on timer
Best for Outdoor Training
- Increased water resistance for rain and moisture
- Very loud beep plus adjustable beep and vibration modes
- Repeating one- or two-interval programming up to 99 times
Best For: Outdoor runs and group workouts needing clear alerts
Best Rechargeable Pick
- Rechargeable battery designed to last for months
- Chime and vibration alerts with adjustable duration
- Weatherproof, compact, and includes a belt clip
Best For: Runners wanting a rechargeable timer for outdoor intervals
Best for Loud Alerts
- Very loud, adjustable beep for outdoor training
- Vibration-only mode is available
- Sweat- and impact-resistant with rain resistance
Best For: Outdoor runners and group workouts needing clear alerts
Best Value Running Timer
Gymboss Classic Interval Timer
- One- or two-interval programming from 2 seconds to 99 minutes
- Chime and vibration alerts with repeat mode
- Compact, sweat-resistant design with belt clip
Best For: Runners needing simple timing for repeated workouts
Weather-Ready Classic
- One or two intervals from 2 seconds to 99 minutes
- Weather-, sweat-, and impact-resistant design
- Loud beep or vibration alerts with up to 99 repeats
Best For: Outdoor runners and group workouts
Rechargeable Rain Runner
- Rechargeable battery lasts for months per charge
- Backlit LCD and vibration or chime alerts
- Weatherproof for heavy rain but not submersion
Best For: Wet-weather runners wanting rechargeable power
Everyday Training Pick
- One or two programmable intervals up to 99 minutes
- Automatic repetition up to 99 cycles
- Sweat- and impact-resistant with chime or vibration
Best For: Everyday running and learn-to-run workouts
Best Compact Pick – Gymboss Interval Timer Black/Blue
The Gymboss Black/Blue is a compact option for runners who want interval timers for runners that can handle repeat run-walk sessions, speed intervals, or training drills. It times one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes and provides both chime and vibration alerts.
Best For: Runners who want a small, clip-on timer for repeat intervals and general workout timing.
Pros:
- Supports one or two repeating intervals, with up to 99 repeats.
- Offers both chime and vibration notifications.
- Includes a stopwatch, clock, and removable belt clip.
- Sweat- and impact-resistant design in a pager-sized body.
Cons:
- Requires a AAA battery, which is not included.
- Alarm duration options are limited to one, two, five, or nine seconds.
Its simple controls and compact clip-on format make it a practical choice for runners who prefer a dedicated timer rather than relying on a phone. The main tradeoff is the need to supply and replace the AAA battery.
Best Wearable Bundle – Charge Interval Timer with Watch Strap
The Charge bundle combines an interval timer with a watch strap, making it one of the more wearable interval timers for runners. It supports one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, while the vibrating alarm can transmit directly to the wrist during activity.
Best For: Runners who want wrist-worn alerts, rechargeable power, and a backlit display for outdoor training.
Pros:
- Includes a dedicated watch strap for wrist-based use.
- Provides chime and vibration alerts with a backlit LCD.
- Built-in rechargeable battery and included charging cable.
- Weatherproof for heavy rain and sweat, though it cannot be submerged.
Cons:
- Not designed for pool use or submersion.
- Automatic shutdown activates after five minutes of inactivity outside timer mode.
The included strap gives this bundle a clear advantage when runners need to feel alerts without reaching for a clipped device. Its rechargeable design also avoids disposable batteries, while the weatherproofing still requires care around water.
Best Color Option – Gymboss Interval Timer Violet/Pink
The Violet/Pink Gymboss delivers the same practical timing functions runners often seek in interval timers for runners, including one- or two-interval programming, repeat mode, and vibration or chime alerts. Its small pager-style design clips onto clothing or gear.
Best For: Runners who want a compact interval timer with a distinctive metallic color finish.
Pros:
- Times intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes.
- Repeats programmed intervals up to 99 times.
- Includes stopwatch, clock, removable belt clip, and dual alert modes.
- Sweat- and impact-resistant construction.
Cons:
- AAA battery is required and not included.
- Does not include a wrist strap or rechargeable battery.
This model is a straightforward choice for runners who value compactness and easy-to-notice styling. Functionally, it is best suited to users comfortable wearing the timer on a belt, waistband, or other clipped location.
Best for Outdoor Training – Gymboss Plus Black/Green
The Gymboss Plus is designed for runners who need interval timers for runners that remain useful in changing outdoor conditions. It adds increased water resistance and a very loud beep to the core one- or two-interval timing functions, while retaining vibration alerts for quieter use.
Best For: Outdoor runners, group-training participants, and anyone who needs a prominent audible signal.
Pros:
- Increased water resistance for exposure to moisture and rain.
- Very loud beep is suitable for outdoor use or group classes.
- Can be switched to a quieter beep or vibration-only mode.
- Supports intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes and up to 99 repeats.
Cons:
- AAA battery is required and not included.
- It is still a small clip-on timer rather than a wrist-worn device.
The Plus model is the strongest fit here for noisy environments or wet-weather running because of its louder alert and increased water resistance. Runners who prefer discreet feedback can use vibration mode instead.
Best Rechargeable Pick – Gymboss Charge Interval Timer
For runners comparing interval timers for runners, the Gymboss Charge stands out as a compact, rechargeable option for repeat run-walk sessions, track intervals, and tempo workouts. It supports one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, with automatic repeating for up to 99 repeats.
Best For: Runners who want a rechargeable timer with vibration, chime, and weather-resistant construction.
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery can last for months on a charge.
- Vibration and chime alerts, with adjustable alarm duration.
- Weatherproof for heavy rain, sweat, and humid conditions; includes a removable belt clip.
- Backlit LCD improves visibility in different lighting.
Cons:
- Cannot be submerged or used in a pool.
- Charging cable is required instead of a replaceable battery.
The Charge is a practical choice when you want fewer battery changes and dependable alerts during outdoor training. Its pager-sized design also keeps it unobtrusive on a run.
Best for Loud Alerts – Gymboss Plus Interval Timer
The Gymboss Plus is a straightforward option for runners comparing interval timers for runners, especially when a clear alert matters more than rechargeable power. It handles one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes and can repeat them automatically up to 99 times.
Best For: Outdoor runners and training groups who need a very loud beep or a selectable vibration-only alert.
Pros:
- Very loud beep is useful outdoors and in group settings.
- Vibration mode can be used alone, or the beep can be adjusted or silenced.
- Sweat- and impact-resistant with increased water resistance for rain exposure.
- Includes a secure, removable belt clip and built-in stopwatch and clock.
Cons:
- Requires one AAA battery, which is not included.
- Its alert volume may be excessive for quiet environments unless adjusted or silenced.
Choose the Plus if you regularly run outdoors or coach sessions where an audible signal must cut through background noise. The replaceable AAA battery is convenient, though it adds an extra purchase.
Best Value Running Timer – Gymboss Classic Interval Timer
The classic Gymboss offers the essential features many runners need from interval timers for runners without adding unnecessary complexity. It supports one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, repeats up to 99 times, and provides chime or vibration notifications.
Best For: Runners who want a compact, simple timer for run-walk plans, HIIT, and repeated training intervals.
Pros:
- Supports intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, with automatic repeat mode.
- Chime and vibration alerts with four selectable alarm durations.
- Sweat- and impact-resistant for running and other training activities.
- Includes a removable belt clip and built-in stopwatch and clock.
Cons:
- AAA battery is not included.
- It does not list the increased water resistance of the Plus model.
This model covers the core timing functions for structured running workouts in a small pager-style unit. It is a sensible pick if you want a dedicated timer and do not need rechargeable power.
Weather-Ready Classic – Gymboss Plus Interval Timer
The Gymboss Plus is a compact choice for runners who want dedicated interval timers for runners without relying on a phone. It supports one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, with repeating cycles, stopwatch and clock functions, and audible or vibrating alerts.
Best For: Outdoor runners, group workouts, and anyone who prefers a simple belt-clip timer with loud alerts.
Pros:
- Water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and impact-resistant for outdoor activity.
- Repeats interval cycles up to 99 times and supports adjustable one-, two-, five-, or nine-second alarms.
- Offers both a very loud beep and a vibrate-only mode.
- Small pager-like design includes a secure, removable belt clip.
Cons:
- Requires a separately purchased AAA battery.
- Does not include a backlit display.
Choose this model if durable, straightforward controls and strong alert volume matter more than rechargeable power or advanced display features.
Rechargeable Rain Runner – Gymboss Charge Interval Timer
The Gymboss Charge is a practical option for runners seeking interval timers for runners with rechargeable convenience. It handles one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, repeats cycles up to 99 times, and adds a backlit LCD for easier viewing in changing light.
Best For: Runners training outdoors in rain or humidity who want a rechargeable timer and a readable display.
Pros:
- Weatherproof for heavy continuous rain, sweat, and humid conditions.
- Built-in rechargeable battery lasts for months on a single charge, with cable included.
- Backlit LCD improves visibility in different lighting conditions.
- Provides chime or vibration alerts, stopwatch and clock functions, and up to 99 repeats.
Cons:
- Cannot be submerged or used in a pool.
- Charging is required instead of swapping in a standard AAA battery.
This is the strongest fit of the three for wet-weather training and runners who want to avoid carrying spare batteries, provided the timer will not be submerged.
Everyday Training Pick – Gymboss Interval Timer
The white-and-gray Gymboss Interval Timer is a no-frills tool for runners who want interval timers for runners dedicated to repeat training. It supports one or two intervals from two seconds to 99 minutes, with automatic repetition, stopwatch and clock functions, and a removable belt clip.
Best For: Runners, learn-to-run programs, and athletes who want a compact battery-powered timer for regular workouts.
Pros:
- Supports interval cycles up to 99 repeats.
- Offers chime or vibration notifications with four selectable alarm durations.
- Sweat- and impact-resistant for training use.
- Works for running and a broad range of activities, including HIIT, cardio, boxing, and strength training.
Cons:
- AAA battery is not included.
- No backlit display is listed.
- Less weather protection is specified than for the Gymboss Charge.
Its straightforward feature set makes it a sensible everyday choice for runners who need repeatable timing without rechargeable charging or extra complexity.
How We Picked the Best Interval Timers for Runners
We focused on the features that matter during real running workouts: programmable interval support, stopwatch functionality, portability, controls, visibility, and wearing options. Because the selected products come from the same established timer range, differences in construction, finish, model family, and included accessories are especially important when comparing them.
We also considered how easily each timer can fit into a training setup. A simple clip-on design may suit track sessions, while a watchstrap bundle can be more practical for runners who want the timer secured to their wrist. The best choice depends on workout complexity, preferred carrying method, and how much durability you need.
Quick Comparison
| Timer type | Best suited to | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Gymboss | Everyday interval workouts | Compact, straightforward timing with stopwatch support |
| Gymboss Plus | Runners wanting a more rugged option | Compare the hardcoat or softcoat finish and preferred color |
| Gymboss Charge | Frequent users seeking a rechargeable-style model | Check charging needs and included configuration |
| Timer and watchstrap bundle | Hands-free training | Useful when wrist access is more convenient than a clip |
Key Buying Factors for Interval Timers for Runners
Programming and Workout Flexibility
Make sure the timer supports the intervals you actually run, such as repeated work-and-recovery blocks, run-walk cycles, or timed circuits. A stopwatch function is useful for measuring total session time or a single effort.
Alert Style and Visibility
Runners need to recognize an interval change without constantly looking down. Consider whether the timer’s audible alert will be noticeable outdoors, especially near traffic or on a busy track. A clear display and simple controls also help when setting up before a workout.
Carrying Method and Comfort
A clip-on timer is convenient for shorts, a waistband, or a training bag. A watchstrap configuration may be preferable when you want the timer visible and secured during movement. Check the size and attachment method before buying if you dislike bulky accessories.
Durability and Finish
Softcoat, hardcoat, and gloss finishes can affect the feel and resistance to everyday wear. If you train outdoors frequently, prioritize a construction that feels secure and easy to handle with sweaty or cold hands.
Power and Maintenance
Review the model’s battery or charging requirements and consider how often you plan to use it. A timer that is simple to maintain is more likely to be ready for spontaneous workouts.
Who Should Buy Which Interval Timers for Runners?
Choose a standard Gymboss Interval Timer if you want a compact, uncomplicated tool for regular run-walk sessions and interval training. The Gymboss Plus line is a better fit for runners who place more emphasis on a tougher finish or want to compare softcoat and hardcoat versions. Consider a Gymboss Charge model if its power setup better matches frequent training and convenient recharging.
The watchstrap bundle makes the most sense for runners who prefer wrist-mounted access during intervals. Color and finish can then guide the final decision between otherwise similar options. For most buyers, the best interval timer is the model that is easiest to program, hear, carry, and keep ready for the next workout.