In the dynamic world of fitness, Hyrox is gaining popularity as a functional fitness race that's challenging yet accessible. This hybrid competition combines strength and endurance exercises, attracting a growing number of fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
What is Hyrox?
Hyrox was founded by Christian Tötzke with a vision to create a global fitness competition that tests both strength and endurance. Launched in 2017, Hyrox offers a unique hybrid of functional fitness, bridging the gap between endurance races and traditional gym workouts. Tötzke aimed to design a competition that is inclusive and challenging, yet safe and structured.
Why Hyrox is Gaining Popularity
- 1. Functional Fitness Focus: Hyrox emphasizes movements that improve overall fitness and prepare you for everyday physical activities. The exercises are practical and beneficial for daily life.
- 2. Ease of Learning: The exercises in Hyrox are straightforward and easier to master compared to the complex Olympic lifts often seen in CrossFit. This accessibility makes it appealing to beginners.
- 3. Low Injury Risk: The structured format and emphasis on functional movements reduce the risk of injury, making it a safer alternative for many athletes.
- 4. Aerobic and Functional Strength Movements: Hyrox effectively combines aerobic exercises with functional strength training, promoting comprehensive fitness and endurance.
- 5. Inclusive and Accessible: Hyrox events cater to all fitness levels, providing an entry point for newcomers while still offering a challenge for experienced athletes.
- 6. Global Community: With events planned worldwide, Hyrox fosters a sense of global camaraderie among fitness enthusiasts.
What Does the Race Look Like?
Each Hyrox event consists of eight rounds, each including a 1 km run followed by a functional workout. The workouts include movements like sled pushes, rowing, and wall balls, designed to challenge all aspects of fitness.
Here's a breakdown of the race format:
- 1. 1 km Run
- 2. 1000m SkiErg: This erg predominantly targets the arm, shoulder & core muscles, however when done efficiently, it also involves muscles in the lower body – making the Ski Erg a full-body workout.
- 3. 1 km Run
- 4. 50m Sled Push: This movement targets the lower body muscles, including the entire posterior chain, core & anterior thigh muscles in particular.
- 5. 1 km Run
- 6. 50m Sled Pulls: Get ready to use your glutes, back, biceps & the entire trunk.
- 7. 1 km Run
- 8. 80m Burpee Broad Jump: Full body workout that is both loved and hated at the same time.
- 9. 1 km Run
- 10. 1000m Row: Rowing marks the beginning of the second half of the HYROX race.
- 11. 1 km Run
- 12. 200m Farmers Carry: Engagement of your upper back muscles, core & grip strength is required.
- 13. 1 km Run
- 14. 100m Sandbag Lunges: Primarily targets the thigh and glute muscles, this one is a burner.
- 15. 1 km Run
- 16. 75/100 Wall Balls: The final station… Wall Balls. With the finish line in sight, it’s time to finish your race in style!
This combination of running and functional workouts ensures participants maintain an elevated heart rate, boosting both cardiovascular endurance and overall fitness.
Hyrox vs. CrossFit
CrossFit is known for its varied, high-intensity workouts that combine weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. While effective, its emphasis on Olympic lifting can be technically challenging and carries a higher risk of injury, especially for older athletes or beginners.
Hyrox, on the other hand, offers a standardized competition format with exercises that are easier to learn and perform. This makes it a safer and more accessible alternative, appealing to those seeking a challenging yet less technical fitness competition.
Christian Tötzke's vision for Hyrox is inspiring: "We have a very clear vision of having 170 Hyrox events by 2027, in the most exciting cities around the world and in all the most relevant markets for fitness. We want to have a million people doing Hyrox every year."
Impact on VO2max and Cardiovascular Health
VO2max, a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen an individual can utilize during intense exercise, is crucial for cardiovascular fitness. Both Hyrox and CrossFit positively influence VO2max and cardiovascular health, but in slightly different ways.
- Hyrox: The combination of running and functional exercises in Hyrox significantly boosts cardiovascular endurance and VO2max. The consistent 1 km runs interspersed with high-intensity exercises ensure an elevated heart rate throughout the event, enhancing aerobic capacity.
- CrossFit: CrossFit's varied and intense workouts also improve cardiovascular fitness, though the emphasis on strength and power can sometimes lead to more anaerobic training. However, the high-intensity interval nature of many CrossFit workouts is known to increase VO2max effectively.
Hyrox Competitions in Australia
Hyrox is rapidly expanding, with events planned worldwide. Check the Hyrox website for upcoming competitions in Australia and other locations. Participating in a Hyrox event is a thrilling way to test your limits and join a growing global fitness community.
Hyrox is an exciting addition to the fitness landscape, offering a compelling alternative to CrossFit. With its standardized format, focus on functional fitness and inclusivity, Hyrox is poised to continue growing in popularity. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to fitness, Hyrox provides a challenging and rewarding way to enhance your overall health and fitness.
Equipment Guide: Want to Start Training for Hyrox?
To start training for Hyrox, consider investing in quality fitness gear from VERVE. Recommended equipment includes:
VERVE Curved Treadmill | Pre-Order ETA Mid February
$4,999
$5,499
IMPROVE YOUR RUNNING FORM The VERVE Air Runner Is the ultimate running machine allowing you a truly natural feel with the ability to easily adjust the intensity. Unlike standard electric treadmills, the VERVE Curved Treadmill features a curved magnetic running… read more
VERVE SkiErg and optional SkiErg Stand
$1,599
$1,799
MAX YOUR HEALTH Your VO2MAX is one of the main predictors of your longevity. Elevate Your Fitness Experience with VO2FIT Ski Machine VERVE is about transcending the boundaries of traditional fitness equipment. The VERVE Ski Machine is a masterful blend… read more
VERVE Panther Sled
$549
$599
VERVE Panther Sled The VERVE panther sled is a completely redesigned sled design suitable for all kinds of push and pull exercises. The sled features a dual-direction design, single loading pin and attachment points on both side for a battle rope or climbing rope. … read more
VERVE Commercial Rower
$1,599
$1,699
EVEN BETTER ROWING EXPERIENCE This rower is approved to be used at the CrossFit Expo games in Melbourne an Sydney. We get asked how our rower compares to another well known brand of rower. In simple terms, we've taken what… read more
VERVE Power Bags
$65
$75
VERVE POWER BAGS Experience the ultimate in versatile fitness equipment with VERVE Power Bags, a dynamic addition to any workout regime. Constructed from premium, heavy-duty materials, these power bags are specifically designed to withstand the rigors of the most intense… read more
VERVE Strongman Sandbags
$89
$99
VERVE Strongman Sandbags The VERVE Strongman Sandbags offer a flexible and easy to transport alternative to heavy balls and stones. Loadable sand bags are provided empty and require clean dry sand to fill the inner bags and must be filled to… read more
