I’ve been training in running and at the gym for several years, and I needed a new challenge, some variety in my workouts while still keeping my passion for running and physical training. That’s how I decided to sign up for a double HYROX in Toronto.
HYROX: what is it?
It’s a hybrid competition that combines 8 kilometers of running and 8 functional workout stations. The idea is to alternate 1 km of running with one workout station and repeat that 8 times. It’s an intense sport that tests your endurance, strength and strategy. What I love about this event is that it’s really accessible to everyone thanks to the different participation formats: individual, doubles, relay and different divisions.
Loïka’s tips
Don’t underestimate the running
The running portion makes up 80% of the competition. If I had only one tip to give, it would be to train your running to the point where it feels “easy”. We tend to tell ourselves that “1 km at a time isn’t so bad”, but remember that it’s a total of 8 km, ON TOP of the 8 workout stations. You can’t afford to be exhausted just from the laps of running. Oh, and make sure you count your laps correctly… it would be a shame to do one too many by mistake!
Game plan as a team
Every second counts. If you’re competing as a team, make sure you practice the transitions together, run together and, above all, really listen to each other, because everything is done as a pair. Make a plan to decide who starts and who finishes each station according to your strengths and weaknesses, because there are no rules about how you can split your efforts at each station. I even recommend that the faster/more skilled runner matches the pace of their (slower) teammate to allow each person to catch their breath at different times.
Practice the movements properly
It’s all about saving time. So practice, practice and practice each of the movements for the 8 stations so you’ll feel comfortable with the equipment there, but especially to avoid any injuries during your competition. See the events here.
Other tips
- There’s a big screen that tells you where you are in the competition. Your name can scroll by quite quickly, so knowing the order of the stations is a good idea so you don’t feel lost on site.
- Your time only stops at the very end, so keep running, even in the transition zones between stations.
- Nothing new on race day: hydrate and fuel the way you’re used to.
- Read up on the rules on the website before the race, because penalties can be given by the judges for simple mistakes.
- And most importantly… have fun!
In the end, it’s an amazing event that lets you train both your cardio and your overall muscular strength, while pushing yourself, whether alone or as a team. I highly recommend it!
