As Google defines it, The term “Hyrox” is a combination of the words “hybrid” and “rockstar”. It does not have a specific meaning, but was chosen as a catchy name for a fitness race that combines elements of running and functional exercises. The race is designed to test participants’ strength, endurance, and overall fitness. The exercises performed during the race include ski erg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jump, rowing, kettlebell farmers carry, sandbag lunge, and wall balls.
In 2024 I spectated as my brother and sister in law competed outside on Pier 76 in NYC on a nice HOT June day. I had my first experience as a participant March 30th in Washington, DC. It was an experience and at the end of it I said, “Wow that was harder than an Ironman!” and I layed on the ground. Each sport/competition has its own challenges and this is about pushing you to perform strength challenges between laps of 1k totaling 8k throughout the race. Whereas, IM and Ultra Running is having the mental ability to play the long game.
The energy and community is awesome. With the music pumping and seeing the other competitors go before you, gets you going! It is not Cross-Fit, it is its own animal and the beauty of it is, HYROX is using activities pretty much anyone can do. There are pro, singles age group, doubles, mixed doubles, and team categories if you want to jump right in or just get your feet wet.
I used a beginner plan to prep and felt good going in knowing that I did all the workouts in addition to running. However, after finishing I know the areas that I can improve and speed in the run is part of it. ( Here is my push to get you to run track nights ; ) Knowing the best techniques is extremely helpful too. There are some HYROX gyms in the area, but I did majority of my training at Retro Fitness ( ORC race sponsor!) Will I do it again, I say maybe, it is definitely a cool experience. No matter what, Never Stop Competing and KEEP GOING!
Stay Sweet,
Mindy D.