Free Tabata Timer for iPhone

The simple, ad-free interval timer for Tabata workouts

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What is Tabata?

Tabata is a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol developed by Japanese scientist Dr. Izumi Tabata in 1996. A standard Tabata workout consists of 8 rounds of20 seconds of all-out work followed by10 seconds of rest, totaling just 4 minutes.

Despite its short duration, Tabata training has been shown to improve both aerobic and anaerobic fitness. It works with almost any exercise: sprints, burpees, squats, push-ups, kettlebell swings, or cycling.

Why Box Timer for Tabata?

• Custom intervals — Set any work time, rest time, and number of rounds. Classic 20/10 for 8 rounds, or your own variation.
• Loud audio cues — Clear beeps signal round transitions so you can focus on your workout, not the screen. Beeps play during the last 3 seconds of each rest period.
• Works with your music — Timer sounds play alongside your music without interrupting playback.
• Large, readable display — A digital timer you can read from across the room. Rotate to landscape for a full-screen view.
• Workout history — Every session is saved automatically. Pin your favorite Tabata setup and reload it with one tap next time.
• Completely free — No ads, no subscriptions, no in-app purchases. Just a timer.

How to set up a Tabata timer

1. Open Box Timer and tap Edit Timer
2. Select Interval as the timer type
3. Set Rounds to 8
4. Set Work to 0 minutes and 20 seconds
5. Set Rest to 0 minutes and 10 seconds
6. Turn on Countdown if you want a 10-second countdown before the first round
7. Tap Save, then Start

See the full guide:How to set an interval timer with both work and rest time

Popular Tabata variations

All of these can be set up in Box Timer using the interval timer mode.

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Related:Free HIIT Timer for iPhone · Free CrossFit Timer for iPhone · Best Workout Timer Apps for iPhone in 2026