Hyrox Abu Dhabi: Fitness for All

This weekend, Abu Dhabi becomes the latest stage for Hyrox, a fast-growing global fitness competition that blends endurance with functional strength.

Originating in Germany in 2017, Hyrox stands for “hybrid rock star” and has quickly established itself as a one-of-a-kind challenge for fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

Held for the first time in the UAE capital, Saturday’s sold-out event will attract first-time participants and seasoned athletes alike.

While past editions have taken place in Dubai and Sharjah, Abu Dhabi offers a fresh opportunity for competitors to push their limits.

Read Also: Everlast and Hyrox Unite to Revolutionize Functional Fitness

What Is Hyrox?

Hyrox consists of eight 1km runs, each followed by a functional workout station in the following order:

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

Every race follows the same structure, regardless of location, with four divisions available—Open, Pro, Doubles, and Relay.

"We Can Do Hard Things"

Among this year’s first-timers is Abu Dhabi resident Sumayyah Marit Raidvere, who was inspired to join after seeing footage of the Sharjah event.

Reluctant at first, she embraced the challenge as a way to lead by example for her children.

Echoing a motto she underscores at home, “We can do hard things,” Raidvere says this competition embodies her belief that “I can’t” shouldn’t exist in her household.

Similarly, newcomer Ranim Kaddoura took the leap after successfully completing last year’s Adnoc 10K run.

Initially concerned about her readiness, she committed to training with just over two months of preparation.

Why It’s Special

Hyrox is acclaimed for its electric atmosphere, with energetic music, cheering spectators, and participants powering through each station.

Performance coach Mariam Tarek, a three-time Hyrox competitor, says the adrenalin rush is unmatched—but warns first-timers to pace themselves.

“The structure demands respect; it’s a long race, and going out too strong can humble anyone,” she explains.

For marketing manager and personal trainer Mariam Diab, the camaraderie of training with her fitness community makes the Hyrox experience memorable.

After competing in Dubai and Sharjah, she describes the event as “challenging but rewarding,” and notes that finishing her first race on her birthday—cheered on by family—cemented it as an unforgettable moment.

Built for Everyone

Hyrox’s inclusive format makes it accessible to all fitness levels. Event participants range from beginners to elite athletes, as well as older individuals and those with disabilities.

“Hyrox focuses on functional exercises most gym-goers already know, like rowing, sled pushes, and burpees,” explains Steve Pere, co-founder of GritnCode, a boutique gym in Abu Dhabi.

Unlike sports requiring complex techniques, Hyrox’s straightforward structure allows participants to focus on improving personal performance.

Pere emphasizes the importance of training consistency across strength, endurance, and technical skills—without the need to master intricate movements.

Still, significant challenges remain. For Kaddoura and Diab, running is a key obstacle, while Raidvere admits that burpee broad jumps and pacing her runs are like “kryptonite.”

Tarek finds the final wall-ball station the toughest, describing the jelly legs and shaking arms required to push through to the finish.

More Than a Race

Beyond fitness, Hyrox is about discovering personal resilience. Raidvere hopes to improve her 5K run time and take on Hyrox Stockholm later this year.

Kaddoura views the event as a stepping stone to greater mental and physical strength. Meanwhile, Tarek aspires to become one of the first Egyptian women to rank among the competition’s top athletes.

For those still considering Hyrox, Diab offers this advice, “Step onto the course. Taking part means you’ve already succeeded. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.”

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or trying something new, Hyrox is not just a race—it’s a celebration of grit, determination, and community.

Read Also: Thinking About Joining Your First Hyrox Event?

Source: thenationalnews

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.