HYROX has been one of my favorite fitness discoveries since watching as a spectator in Dallas, Texas last April. It’s described as the “World Series of Fitness”, but it really is a competition for anyone that wants to put themselves up against a tough physical and mental challenge. The spectators, the athletes, the HYROX staff, the MC, the DJ — it all culminates in a high-energy and competitive but fun atmosphere that so many experienced in college athletics but lack today.

THE RACE

There are 4 different divisions that anyone can sign up for and a couple of different race formats. There are a total of 8 different workouts (with weight varying depending on division) and 1 km of running between every workout for a total distance of 8 km.

Here’s a snapshot of the concept:

THE RACE FORMATS

• Single - Open or Pro Division

• Doubles - two participants of the same gender can race together. You can split the workouts however you want, but must run together.

• Mixed Doubles - two participants of opposite gender can race together. You can split the workouts however you want, but must run together. (Weight for the workouts is Men’s)

• Mixed Relay - two men and two women can race together. Each participant must complete two runs and two different workouts.

I’ve tried all formats except mixed doubles and all are so much fun. Doubles or Mixed relay is a great way to try out the event and experience the energy without taking on all the intensity :)

HYROX is HARD, but so rewarding, no matter your fitness level. I personally NEVER thought I’d be able to participate in the strength workouts, but it’s been inspiring to put myself into a new arena and work towards something so far outside my comfort zone.

WHY I RACE & WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT

I tried the race for the first time last year after watching CJ compete - I put it in the back of my mind as something I’d like to try one day. With a little push from the community and heightened curiosity, the “one day” in my mind turned into a few weeks later. What did I have to lose? Nothing. Instead, I gained the confidence to do more things before feeling ready. I discovered a new type of competition within myself. I ignited a flame for functional fitness - to prep myself to be resilient for life, but also to be an example for women that they can be fast AND strong (and anything they want).

I continue to show up on the course to honor my father, who left the world suddenly to a heart attack 7.5 years ago - for I know without a doubt he’d be in the arena himself if he were here.

I show up because every now and then I think we all need a reminder to turn pain into purpose.

To purposefully push ourselves to do the hard things.

To prove to ourselves we’re stronger than we think.

To sharpen our attitude for everyday life.

While these are just a few of my own reflections, I hope this makes you think about what you can do before you’re ready. What you can do to turn pain into purpose.. and what you can do to make yourself a little more resilient in life.

If you’re looking for motivation to try the concept, and are ready to feel that heart-pounding adrenaline and grit when you leave everything you have on the course, you should sign yourself up for an upcoming event!