Hyrox Abu Dhabi: Challenge Redefined

Abu Dhabi is gearing up to host the world-famous Hyrox competition for the very first time.

Taking place this Saturday, the sold-out event will give fitness enthusiasts the chance to run, row, lunge, and squat their way through one of the fastest-growing global fitness challenges.

Originating in Germany in 2017, Hyrox—short for “hybrid rockstar”—offers a unique blend of endurance and functional strength, and its energetic format has already made waves in Dubai and Sharjah.

Read More: Hyrox Abu Dhabi: Fitness for All

What is Hyrox?

Hyrox races maintain a standardized format worldwide, with four divisions to choose from—Open, Pro, Doubles, and Relay.

Competitors take on eight 1km runs, each followed immediately by a station workout. The sequence includes:

• 1,000m SkiErg
  
  
• 50m sled push
  
  
• 50m sled pull
  
  
• 80m burpee broad jumps
  
  
• 1,000m rowing
  
  
• 200m kettlebell farmer’s carry
  
  
• 100m sandbag lunges
  
  
• 100 wall balls
  
  

Weights and difficulty vary based on the division, ensuring inclusivity for all fitness levels.

The atmosphere at a Hyrox event is electric, with upbeat music, cheering spectators, and participants pushing themselves through every challenge.

First-Timers and Seasoned Athletes

Many Abu Dhabi residents are stepping up for their first-ever Hyrox experience.

Sumayyah Marit Raidvere, inspired by videos from previous UAE events, decided to give it a shot, despite never competing in endurance races before.

Ranim Kaddoura, another first-timer, embraced the challenge after completing the Adnoc 10K run.

Driven by the mantra she teaches her children, “We can do hard things,” Kaddoura signed up with just two months of preparation.

For performance coach Mariam Tarek, Hyrox is the ultimate test of grit. Having already competed in three events, she emphasizes the importance of pacing and respecting the format. “It’s a long race, and if you don't pace yourself, it will humble you,” she says.

Another seasoned participant, Mariam Diab, shares the camaraderie of team-based training as an unexpected highlight. After competitive runs in Dubai and Sharjah, she found joy in tackling the challenges alongside her fitness community.

Why Hyrox Stands Out

Hyrox’s appeal lies in its inclusivity. Unlike CrossFit or obstacle races that require technical skills, the fitness race focuses on straightforward functional movements like rowing, running, and sled pulls.

Steve Pere, co-founder of GritnCode gym in Abu Dhabi, explains, “Hyrox is built for inclusivity, with a format that allows everyone to track personal progress.

You don’t have to be an elite athlete—you just need the courage to start.”

Participants range in age and ability, with competitors as young as their teens or in their 60s crossing the finish line.

Even those with disabilities have successfully taken part, highlighting Hyrox’s focus on physical and mental toughness.

Read Also: Dubai Sports World Returns This August for 2025 Action

Preparing for the Challenge

Hyrox offers a weekly training program that simplifies preparation with functional exercises most gym-goers already practice.

Facilities like F45, GymNation, and GritnCode also hold specialized classes to gear up for the event.

Even with structured training, challenges remain. For Raidvere, maintaining her pace and conquering burpee broad jumps are her toughest hurdles.

Kaddoura also sees running as her weak spot, while for Tarek and Diab, nothing compares to the final station of wall balls—a grueling yet exhilarating endpoint to the race.

An Unforgettable Spirit

Despite its demanding nature, Hyrox remains a deeply rewarding experience. Athletes describe it as more than a competition—it’s a celebration of resilience and community.

Diab reflects on a poignant moment during her first race as her family cheered her across the finish line. “It was my birthday,” she recalls. “It was such a special memory—proving that age is just a number and setting an example for my daughters.”

For everyone, whether beginners or seasoned pros, Hyrox offers a chance to test limits and discover new strengths.

“Anyone can complete the race,” Tarek emphasizes. “It welcomes all levels and shows you what you’re really made of.”

For those still on the fence, Diab shares encouragement. “Go for it. Enjoy the process. Just stepping into the racecourse means you’ve already won. Never underestimate what you’re capable of—you might just surprise yourself.”

Hyrox Abu Dhabi promises to be an electrifying event, uniting the community through the shared love of movement and challenge.

Source: msn

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.