Big Stretch Reminder

Big Stretch is a lightweight break reminder for people who spend long hours at a computer.

It takes your activity and idle time into account, so reminders happen when they're more likely to be helpful, and less likely to be annoying.

Big Stretch was first released in 2006 and made by Matt Lester

Big Stretch example popup
A break reminder that tries not to get in your way.

Features

🕰️

Flexible timing

Set how often breaks are suggested and how long a break needs to be to count.

👋

Multiple reminder styles

Choose notifications, popups, timed breaks, or a subtle taskbar flash.

🛑

Optional escalation

Enable firmer reminders if breaks are ignored - or keep things gentle.

✍🏼

Custom messages

Use built-in tips, motivational quotes, or write your own reminders.

🔊

Optional sounds

Add a sound to reminders, or keep everything silent.

🖥️

Multi-monitor aware

Choose which screen reminders appear on when using multiple monitors.

Gallery

Timed break example, a window appears over your workflow with a countdown

Timer Settings screen, set the time between breaks

A screenshot of the messages form, select break tip, famous quotes or enter your own messages

The sound settings form, choose inbuilt sounds or select your own

A view of the advanced settings, fine tune your experience

Why Big Stretch?

✔️

Respects your time away

Idle time can count as a break, so stepping away is taken into account.

✔️

You stay in control

Stricter reminders are optional - enable them only if you want.

✔️

Designed for focus

Avoids interrupting fullscreen apps or breaking your flow.