What is HYROX and Its Appeal?

Is it just us, or does it seem like everyone's talking about HYROX lately?

Whether you’re catching up over coffee, in the middle of a school drop-off, or chatting with coworkers, it feels like the go-to update is, “Oh, I’m doing a HYROX.” You’ve probably even seen videos popping up on your Instagram or TikTok feed.

But what exactly is HYROX, and why has it captured the attention of so many?

According to fitness instructor and founder of Village Cricket, Freddie Chatt, “HYROX is a fitness race combining endurance running with functional strength exercises.”

The event includes a series of 1km runs, interspersed with fitness challenges.

Jane, a 33-year-old from Edinburgh who recently completed her first HYROX, says, “I’m surprised when people ask, ‘What’s HYROX?’ It feels like it’s everywhere.

Yes, it’s a trend, but if it helps me get fit, challenges me, and encourages healthy habits and community, why not join in?”

What Exactly is HYROX?

Born in Germany in 2017, HYROX has quickly grown into a global fitness phenomenon. Its structure? Straightforward, yet challenging.

The race consists of eight intervals of 1km runs, each followed by a functional fitness station like sled pushes, burpees, or sandbag lunges.

“This consistency is key,” explains Chatt. “HYROX’s format never changes, which means it’s easy to train for and allows for direct comparisons of your results with athletes from all over the world.

Unlike other events that constantly change up their programming, HYROX is about you versus the clock, testing how well you maintain effort across multiple challenges.”

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How Does HYROX Differ From CrossFit?

While HYROX and CrossFit might sound similar, there are some major differences.

“HYROX is predictable," says Chatt. “CrossFit isn’t. CrossFit mixes things up daily, often including advanced techniques like Olympic lifts or muscle-ups.”

HYROX, on the other hand, keeps things consistent. You always know what to expect, and its exercises are centered around endurance and functional movements that anyone can perform.

“There’s no need for complex gymnastic strength or advanced lifting skills,” Chatt adds. “Your performance is entirely based on fitness, not on how well you’ve mastered intricate techniques.”

The purpose of the two workouts also differs. HYROX pushes you to endure through fatigue, while CrossFit tests your ability to adapt to varied and unpredictable challenges.

Is HYROX Tougher Than a Marathon?

That depends on your strengths.

“A marathon is straightforward,” explains Chatt. “You find a pace and hold it for 42.2 kilometers.

HYROX, on the other hand, constantly alternates between running and strength exercises, which can be punishing on your legs and causes your heart rate to spike repeatedly.”

Experience in long-distance running might not give you an edge here.

“Marathoners often struggle with the strength-based challenges, while strength athletes usually find the running parts exhausting,” Chatt notes.

“The best HYROX athletes can still run solid paces, around 3:30–4:20 minutes per km, all while stopping to push sleds or carry heavy objects.

If you’re only familiar with one type of training, HYROX can feel grueling in a way marathons don’t.”

Why Are People Hooked on HYROX?

HYROX’s surge in popularity is largely tied to its dominance on fitness-themed social media. Jane, for example, was inspired by influencers like Lucy Davis and Emily Cook.

On top of that, celebrity endorsements have only heightened its appeal.

Zoe Rae, sister of Love Island star Molly Mae, is one of HYROX’s fans. She and her husband have entered ten HYROX events together.

“I was inspired by my former coworker-turned-HYROX coach, Aaron Woodman,” Rae shared.

“After watching him compete at the Manchester World Champs, I was hooked. Having been in the military, I’d done similar types of training, so I immediately knew HYROX was for me.”

Love Island All Stars winner Molly Smith is another supporter. “I love challenging myself," she said in an interview.

"I’ve done weights, running, CrossFit training, and even a HYROX competition. Anything that makes me feel good, I’m in.”

Beyond the social media buzz and celebrity endorsements, HYROX offers an experience that stands out.

“It’s straightforward, competitive, and addictive,” says Chatt. “The format never changes, so you can easily track your progress.

Plus, there are divisions for all skill levels, from beginners to elite athletes.

The events are held in large, energetic arenas, and you can compete solo, with a partner, or as part of a team.

It’s the combination of endurance, strength, and community that keeps people coming back. Yes, it’s demanding, but that’s what makes it rewarding.”

Source: glamourmagazine

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.