Drug-Resistant Fungus Computing's Top Prize Google's AI Chatbot Beat Airline Ticket Prices ChatGPT Bug 7 Daily Habits for Happiness Weigh Yourself Accurately 12 Healthy Spring Recipes
Want CNET to notify you of price drops and the latest stories?
No, thank you
Accept

Remind yourself to take stretch breaks with BreakTaker

Research shows that sitting down for extended periods without a break is bad for us. BreakTaker is a tiny Windows app that reminds us to get up and stretch more regularly.

We all know we're not supposed to remain seated for hours on end. Even the most heroic coders know they can get more done if they take frequent short breaks to keep their bodies fresh and their minds alert. BreakTaker is a free Windows app that takes up minimal system resources and reminds users to stand up, walk a bit, or stretch at regular intervals. 

  • Download and install BreakTaker here. 
  • Once the app is done installing, it sits in your system tray and watches the clock for you. Its default is set to one hour, at which time it pops up unobtrusively and reminds you to stand up. 
  • Right-click the BreakTaker icon in the system tray to set your options or tell BreakTaker that you just got up, so it will reset its clock. You can also pause the app for a time if you are taking off for lunch or need to focus on a call.

That's all there is to it! There are many options out there for reminding you to take breaks and stay healthy, but BreakTaker is a friendly, minimal way to keep yourself mindful.