As a university student-athlete in Strength and Conditioning and fitness lover, I’m always looking for new challenges. That’s how I discovered HYROX, a global fitness race that combines running with functional workouts. I haven’t competed yet, but I’m already training and preparing for it. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, intense, and rewarding experience. This idea started in 2017 in Hamburg, Germany, and has grown fast, now held in over 11 countries and 30 cities worldwide. Undoubtedly, this competition is unique because of the format: you run 1 km, then complete a workout, repeating that eight times for a total of 8 km and 8 functional workouts.
The workouts are always in the same order. First, you hit the SkiErg, which is a full-body cardio burner. Then comes the Sled Push, where you drive heavy weight forward, followed by the Sled Pull, which tests your grip and upper-body strength. After that, Burpee Broad Jumps brutally challenge your legs and endurance. Next is the Rowing station, keeping your heart rate sky-high. Then the Farmer’s Carry, walking 200 meters with heavy dumbbells in each hand, really tests grip and core strength. The seventh workout is Sandbag Lunges, where you lunge 100 meters with a sandbag on your shoulders. Finally, you finish with Wall Balls — squatting and throwing a medicine ball to a high target, 75 or 100 times depending on your division.
What excites me most is that HYROX is for everyone. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a beginner, there are different divisions, including doubles and age groups. Even before competing, just training for it has made me feel stronger and more motivated. Without a doubt, HYROX is worth it. I can’t wait to take on my first race, and maybe you’ll be on the start line too.
