Cadence
Guide
Best HIIT Interval Timer for iPhone — What Actually Matters
What to look for in an iPhone HIIT interval timer: readable countdown, presets, Watch support, and no ads mid-set.
A HIIT interval timer for iPhone has one job: tell you when to work and when to rest without making you think. If you’re squinting at tiny numbers or dismissing an ad between rounds, the timer failed.
What matters (and what doesn’t)
Must-have
- Huge remaining-time display you can see from the floor
- Clear work / rest phases (color or label)
- Presets for Tabata, EMOM, boxing rounds — not just a blank custom builder
- Audio / haptic cues on transitions
- No ads during a live workout
Nice-to-have
- Apple Watch companion or Live Activity
- Custom intervals when presets aren’t enough
- Health app workout logging
Usually noise
- Social feeds inside the timer
- Account walls before your first session
- Dark-pattern paywalls that cover a running clock
How Cadence approaches it
Cadence is built around the brand rule the timer is sacred — the paywall never covers a running or paused workout. Free presets cover Tabata, EMOM, boxing rounds, AMRAP, and more. Pro unlocks the full library, voice coach, stats, and unlimited customs.
Quick start on iPhone
- Install Cadence from the App Store.
- Pick a preset (start with Tabata 20/10 if you’re unsure).
- Start — a short get-ready countdown fires, then work.
Want a week-long plan? Use the free 7-Day HIIT Starter.
Related reads
Keep going
- Free 7-Day HIIT Starter — day-by-day plan mapped to Cadence presets
- Tabata 20/10 Timer Guide — How to Run the Classic Protocol
- How Long Should HIIT Rest Intervals Be?