About the Workout Rest Timer
A free, browser-based between-set rest timer with quick presets, custom durations, audio cue at zero, set counter, screen wake lock, and optional auto-restart.
What it is
The Workout Rest Timer runs entirely in your browser. Pick a preset rest duration — 30, 60, or 90 seconds, or 2, 3, or 5 minutes — or type any custom value, tap Start, and a big easy-to-read countdown begins immediately. When it reaches zero, an audio cue fires so you know it's time for your next set even if the screen is in your pocket.
Each completed rest increments a set counter so you can track your sets hands-free. An optional auto-restart mode begins the next rest interval automatically, keeping you on pace without any tapping between sets. Settings lock while the timer is running to prevent accidental changes mid-workout.
Nothing is sent to a server or stored anywhere. It's just a timer.
Why consistent rest matters
The rest period between sets is one of the most overlooked variables in training. How long you rest directly affects the metabolic and hormonal demands of the session, and by extension what adaptation you're training for.
Strength and power: Heavy compound lifts (squat, deadlift, bench, overhead press) at 85–95% of your max require near-full recovery between sets. Research generally supports 2–5 minutes here — shorter rests mean the next set starts with accumulated fatigue that forces you to use lighter loads or fewer reps, reducing the training stimulus.
Hypertrophy: For muscle growth, moderate rests of 60–90 seconds are often prescribed, though evidence increasingly supports that longer rests (2+ minutes) don't hurt and can improve volume quality. What matters more is total training volume (sets × reps × load) than a specific rest length.
Endurance and metabolic conditioning: Short rests of 20–60 seconds maintain elevated heart rate, increase metabolic stress, and are typical in circuit training, AMRAP formats, and conditioning work. The challenge is that fatigue accumulates quickly, so consistent short rests train the body to recover faster.
The key in all cases is consistency: resting 45 seconds on one set and 3 minutes on the next makes it impossible to compare performance across sessions or progress systematically. A timer removes the guesswork.
Key features
Quick presets + custom input
Six one-tap presets cover the most common rest intervals: 30 s, 60 s, 90 s, 2 min, 3 min, and 5 min. A custom seconds field accepts any value from 1 second to an hour for programmes that prescribe specific rest lengths.
Audio cue at zero
At the end of each rest the timer plays a clear two-tone audio signal via the Web Audio API. This fires reliably even when the tab is backgrounded or the screen is locked, so you can put your phone down between sets and still hear the cue.
Screen Wake Lock
On supported browsers the timer requests a wake lock when you press Start so the display stays on throughout your session. The lock releases when you pause, reset, or the rest ends. On unsupported browsers the timer still runs and the cue still fires.
Set counter
A set counter increments each time a rest completes so you always know which set you're on — no need to keep count in your head or pause to check your notes mid-workout.
Who it's for
Strength training
Set 2–5 minutes between heavy compound sets and let the cue tell you when to step back under the bar — no need to watch the clock.
Hypertrophy work
Use 60–90 second presets for bodybuilding-style accessory work. The set counter keeps your total volume on track hands-free.
Circuit and conditioning
Short 30-second rests between exercises help keep you on pace through circuits, AMRAP formats, and metabolic conditioning blocks.
Any gym programme
If your programme prescribes a specific rest, type it into the custom field. The timer handles any duration without needing a dedicated app.
A note on health advice
This tool provides general information and is not medical advice. Exercise intensity should match your own fitness and health. Please consult a physician before starting a new exercise routine or training at high intensity—especially if you have any heart condition, injury, or health concern.