Gym Timer – Definitive FAQ Guide

Going to the gym is not always first on our lists. With today’s busy lifestyle it makes it difficult to plan our schedules.  

Well, now there is an easier way! Planning your workout has become much easier with a tool called the Gym Timer. This tool helps you to plan your workouts which saves you time. Many fitness professionals use this tool to make their workouts easier to plan.

With this FAQ guide, we will help you answer questions you might have about the Gym Timer.

Table of Contents

What is the definition of a gym timer?

A gym timer is a clock that works digitally. It can be programmed by an instructor with the time limit required for workouts.

There are five standard modes on a gym timer:

• Stopwatch
• Countdown timer
• Basic clock mode
• Interval mode
• Count-up timer

Figure 1 – A gym timer

What are the advantages of purchasing a gym timer?

• Injury prevention

Gym timers manage workouts to enable your client a better workout and keep track of the time spent on each workout.

This way the client will know when to swap workouts or take breaks without the help of an instructor.

• Manage progress on workouts

Your client will be able to manage their progress on workouts. Instructors can see the clients progress on their workouts and maintain a better workout plan if needed. 

Figure 2 – Benefit of gym timer

What is the lifespan of a gym timer?

There are two types of power resources for gym timers:

• An electric gym timer with a plug where the power source is not needed to replace.
• Gym timer that is battery operated changeable every 2 to 3 years.

Battery-operated gym timers can last from 1 to 8 hours per session. The standby time is 30 hours. It can be charged with a charger if the battery is low.

The battery lifespan depends on how the gym timer is used. It is all about the settings that are selected, and which frequency is used. Whether or not you use an alarm clock or set intervals.

Figure 3 – Gym timer battery

Will instructors replace gym timers?

There are a few things that gym timers can do that an instructor is not able to do.

• The complete workout routine is shown.
• It can tell you numerous times how much time has elapsed.
• No complaints on skipped reps or workouts.

Although it does have a few disadvantages.

• Students are more motivated by instructors and keep better track of the time. 
• Instructors can manage exercises by making sure they are done correctly. 

So, it is safe to say that instructors will not be replaced by gym timers.

Figure 4 – Gym Instructor

How is a gym timer used?

Timers are usually used as interval trainers.

It is used to set the time of each workout and set intervals for short breaks in between exercises. 

Example:

• A timer can be set for treadmill workouts where the timer goes off after 5 minutes of walking approximately three miles an hour.

Speed can then be increased, and the timer can be set for another 5 minutes. This pattern can be repeated and an interval alarm can be set when a break is needed.

• This can also be done when a client is riding a bike. Intervals can be set where the client increases the pedaling in different sets.
• A timer can also be set for aerobic exercises where the timer goes off every 10-15 minutes before having a short break.

Figure 5 – Set up a gym timer

What type of gym timer to choose?

There are different types of gym timers for different types of workout routines. Here are three gym timers that are popular:

• Manual

It is adjustable by hand with hours and minutes and can measure seconds as well.

These are best for bodybuilders or weightlifters; they can work out exact intervals as needed between sets.

• Automatic

This gym timer can count down from 60 minutes. It has different functions like switching off after counting down. 

This gym timer is good for circuit workouts. It lets you know the elapsed time between sets.

• Countdown.

This is good for working out periods. It starts at 29 minutes which is good if you want to break down tasks.

Figure 6 – Gym timer types

What are the best functions to look at in a gym timer?

It all depends on the type of exercise that needs to be done. The countdown clocks are preferred by some while others prefer the digital timers. The digital timers are good for weightlifters or running on the treadmill. 

Stopwatches are sometimes used to remind when the next workout is.

Here are some of the functions to look at when buying a gym timer for your fitness center. 

• Easy to read, large display screen
• Can be used while wearing gloves 
• Battery lasts longer if it is the built-in battery 
• When in low light the screen has a glow feature 
• The alarm can be set 
• Can record previous workouts which prevent errors or mishaps on your client’s training performance.
• Able to listen to music either via Bluetooth or connectivity. 
• Can be used with a smartphone 

Figure 7 – Best gym timer

Is the gym timer suitable for smartphones?

Gym timers can be synced with smartwatches as exercises are usually tracked with a smartwatch. This is possible if the gym timer can support the smartwatch applications.

How to:

• The stopwatch must be set on the watch before starting and when done it must be synced again. 

Cons: The only downside of this method is that stopping and resuming use more time. 

This will also use more battery power from your device. 

The best way:

• It is best to set up workout modes on your smartphone beforehand. 

For example, weightlifting for 30 minutes or running the treadmill for 60 minutes. 

You can sync these exercises with your smartwatch and smartphone.

When you have completed your first exercise your motion should be picked up by the smartwatch and will track your activity.

Figure 8 – Sync gym timer with smartwatch

Is the gym timer able to support smartphone applications?

Yes, some gym timers support smartphone applications. These are the top three applications:

• MapMyFitness
• MyTracks
• RunKeeper

These apps can be connected via Bluetooth. Always check the app first before setting it up with the gym timer.

Figure 9 – Gym timer support smartphone

What is the difference between portable and fixed gym timers?

Below are the pros and cons of portable and fixed gym timers.

Portable Gym Timer

Pros

• Easily moved around 
• Can be used anyplace
• Wireless

Cons

• Must recharge 
• Can be stolen

Fixed Gym Timer

Pros

• Can be installed in one place 
• Not battery operated

Cons

• Has more wires which can be annoying
• Must be installed on an empty wall

Figure 10 – Portable and Fixed Gym Timer

What is the maintenance process for gym timers?

The maintenance process for the durability of the gym timer is as follows:

• Humidity shortens the lifespan of the gym timer
• Must stay dry
• The surface should be cleaned gently with a dry cloth before using 
• If it needs a deeper clean, then a damp cloth with dishwashing liquid can be used to wipe gently
• Do not use fabric detergents!
• When you charge a gym timer make sure it is done in temperatures lower than 30 degrees Celsius
• Do not charge in temperatures higher than 50 degrees Celsius if horizontal
• Always pull the plug off before the charger is connected to the exit 

Figure 11 – Treat a gym timer

Conclusion

We hope this FAQ guide has answered all your questions about purchasing the best gym timer for your fitness center. If you are looking for wholesale deals with excellent quality, then you should contact Yanre Fitness now! 

They have a variety of gym timers of good quality. Yanre Fitness will have just what you are looking for. 

So, what are you waiting for? Contact Yanre Fitness today to get a quote on wholesale gym timers!