WORKOUT TIMERS

Kettlebell timer

Swings, snatches and complexes on the clock: EMOM, Tabata and intervals

Kettlebell training suits a timer: the moves are explosive and repeatable, and the clock decides how long you rest. Most kettlebell sessions use one of three formats: an EMOM, work and rest intervals, or Tabata.

Three ways to time a kettlebell workout.
FormatExampleGood for
EMOM10 to 15 swings at the top of every minute, for 10 minutesPower and good form under fatigue
Intervals40 seconds of work, 20 of rest, 8 to 10 roundsConditioning
Tabata20 seconds of swings, 10 of rest, 8 roundsA short, hard finisher

How to set it up in Cero

  1. For an EMOM, create an advanced timer and add the EMOM (1–3 min) template: one interval per round.
  2. For intervals, use the Work / Rest template, or a simple timer with high and low intensity.
  3. For a complex, add one interval per move, such as Clean, Press and Squat, each with its own name and color.
  4. Save it, so tomorrow’s session is one tap away, on your iPhone or your Apple Watch.

Workout ideas

  • Swing EMOM: 10 swings every minute for 10 minutes, then 15 every minute as you get fitter.
  • Alternating minutes: odd minutes swings, even minutes goblet squats.
  • Snatch intervals: 30 seconds of work, 30 of rest, switching hands each round.
  • Tabata finisher: 8 rounds of 20 seconds of swings after a strength session.

YOUR NEXT SESSION STARTS HERE

Bring the effort.
We’ll keep the time.

Cero is free to download for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch.

Download Cero
Cero’s interval builder on iPhone 18 Pro, with the template picker, warm-up, work, recovery and cool-down intervals, and per-interval timing controls

Cero is a timer, not a medical device. If you’re new to hard exercise, are pregnant or have a health condition, check with your doctor first, and stop if you feel unwell.