What Is a CrossFit Timer?
A CrossFit timer is a workout clock built around the way CrossFit WODs are scored. Instead of one plain countdown, it runs the formats you actually train with — AMRAP, EMOM, For Time and Tabata — and signals the moments that matter with a clear beep. Set your WOD, hit start, and the big display keeps the time and current phase in view from across the gym so you can focus on the movements and let the timer count the rounds.
WOD Timer Modes Explained
- AMRAP - As Many Rounds As Possible. The timer counts down from a set number of minutes while you cycle through the movements, and beeps at zero. Your score is the rounds and reps you complete.
- EMOM - Every Minute On the Minute. The timer beeps at the top of each minute to start your next set, and shows "Minute X of Y" so you always know where you are. Rest is whatever time is left after you finish the reps.
- For Time - Race the clock. The timer counts up from zero so you can record how long a workout takes, with an optional time cap that stops and beeps if you hit it.
- Tabata - The classic 20 seconds of work and 10 seconds of rest for 8 rounds. The display flips between WORK and REST and beeps on every switch so you never have to look down.
How to Use the CrossFit Timer
Choose a mode with the preset buttons — AMRAP, EMOM, For Time or Tabata. Use the input below the presets to set the minutes or time cap for the mode you picked; Tabata is fixed at the standard 20/10 for 8 rounds. Press Start to begin, and the display shows the running time plus the current mode or phase label so the whole gym can read it. Beeps mark the top of every minute in EMOM, each work and rest switch in Tabata, and the end of an AMRAP or the cap in For Time. Tap the spacebar to start or pause, and Reset to set up the next WOD.
Popular CrossFit WOD Formats
- Cindy - a 20 minute AMRAP of 5 pull-ups, 10 push-ups and 15 air squats. Count your rounds.
- Death by - an EMOM that adds a rep each minute until you can no longer finish inside the minute.
- Fran - a classic For Time couplet of thrusters and pull-ups, done as fast as you can hold form.
- Tabata something else - four Tabata blocks of pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups and squats, 20 seconds on and 10 seconds off.
Training Tips
- Pace an AMRAP so your first few rounds match your last — going out too hot burns you out early.
- In an EMOM, keep your reps low enough to earn real rest before the next minute beeps.
- Use the For Time cap so a slow day still ends on schedule instead of dragging on.
- Attack Tabata: 20 seconds is short, so push each work interval and recover in the 10.
- Warm up first and scale the movements so you can hold good form for every round.