HYROX - a sensational new sport storming into gyms globally

In this blogpost, Ruby Barnes, a performance coach at THELAB Athletic Club in Tauranga and pro HYROX athlete (pictured, right) explores HYROX and why it is so popular.

Ruby is a sport science student at the University of Waikato and specialises in human performance and coaching. With a background in competitive running and strength training, Ruby transitioned from the track and road to HYROX, where both endurance and strength is combined.

She will be representing New Zealand at the HYROX World Championships next year.

Ruby writes:
"In just a few years, Hyrox has gone from a niche competition to a global fitness phenomenon. Cross fit, endurance, team sport athletes and gym goers are all getting behind the hybrid scene.

But what is driving this surge?

1. It’s Inclusive and Accessible

Hyrox is designed for everyone, not just seasoned athletes. With multiple categories, Open, Pro, Doubles, and Relay, you can compete at your level or share the load with teammates. You don’t need specialized equipment or advanced skills like Olympic lifts or gymnastics, just solid functional fitness and determination.

2. A Perfect Balance of Strength and Endurance

Hyrox’s format, eight x 1 km runs alternated with eight functional workout stations is a true hybrid challenge. Runners experience the importance of strength, and lifters improve their endurance. This balance appeals to a wide range of fitness enthusiasts who might otherwise stick to just one discipline.

3. Measurable and Repeatable

Unlike many competitions that vary from event to event, Hyrox is standardized worldwide. The course you complete in Sydney is the same as in Stockholm.

This consistency lets athletes benchmark their progress and chase personal bests or global rankings, adding a competitive and motivating element.

4. It Pushes Mental and Physical Limits

Hyrox isn’t just about physical performance, it’s a mental game. Speaking from experience, yes, it is a challenge physically, but the mental grit required to keep going when times are tough is something else. Crossing that finish line provides a unique sense of accomplishment, and for many, that rush is addictive.

5. Community

Beyond fitness, Hyrox has built a global community that extends into gyms and training groups. Athletes from different disciplines come together to prepare for races, push each other, and build a true sense of camaraderie. While the race itself may be individual, the day to day training environment feels like being part of a team, and that’s what keeps people coming back time and time again.

The Takeaway

Hyrox’s meteoric rise comes down to inclusivity, community, and its unique, repeatable challenge that combines strength and endurance. Whether you’re chasing a global ranking or simply looking for a new goal to reboot your training, Hyrox offers the perfect scene.