While they certainly can kick our boo-tays on the bike and mat, Robin Arzon and Benny Adami are also on the receiving end of some of their own fitness beat-downs courtesy of HYROX training.  Both of these Instructors have recently shared that they are competing in, or have already competed in, HYROX races this year, with Robin competing in the NYC race just this past weekend on June 1.

 

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A post shared by Robin Arzón (@robinnyc)

Benny has been documenting his training journey on his Instagram and will be competing in his race in later this year in September.  He may look all cute and sweet on the Bike, but as you can see by this Reel, Benny’s got a take-no-prisoners vibe going on.

 

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A post shared by Benjamin Adami (@benny.adami)

So, What is HYROX?

HYROX, aka “The World Series of Fitness Racing,” is a global fitness competition that combines running with various functional workouts, designed to test an athlete’s strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Participants complete a course that includes eight 1-kilometer (.62 mile) runs, each followed by a different functional fitness workout, such as sled pushes, rowing, burpee broad jumps, and farmer’s carries. The race is structured to challenge both elite athletes and fitness dabblers of all levels, promoting a comprehensive approach to fitness that emphasizes both cardiovascular and muscular endurance. The event has gained popularity for its accessibility, competitive spirit, and the sense of community it fosters among participants.

HYROX Training

Just like any race or fitness competition, it’s best not to go to it unprepared.  HYROX has included some training tips on their website for anyone interested in signing up for a race.  You can also hit up good ol’ Google and find a plethora of websites that offer training plans.  You may even be able to find a group training session in your area (just like Robin did!). Whatever training plan you choose, just make sure it covers endurance (running!!), functional strength training, HIIT, technique and transition work (think perfecting burpees and lunges), and recovery.

Check out Robin, looking strong AF during HYROX training in the rain.

How Does HYROX differ from CrossFit

While the two competition styles may seem to intersect and share similarities, there are also some key differences.

1. Structure:
   • HYROX: This is a standardized race format where participants complete a set sequence of eight 1-kilometer runs, each followed by a specific functional workout (e.g., sled push, rowing, wall balls). The structure is consistent across all HYROX events, making it easy to compare performances.
   • CrossFit: CrossFit workouts (WODs – Workout of the Day) vary widely and can include any combination of movements from a vast pool of exercises. Competitions, like the CrossFit Games, often have unpredictable events designed to test a wide range of physical skills.
2. Focus:
   • HYROX: Emphasizes a blend of endurance (running) and functional strength in a predictable, repeatable format. It is designed to be a race against time.
   • CrossFit: Focuses on general physical preparedness, aiming to improve multiple fitness domains such as strength, agility, flexibility, and endurance through constantly varied workouts.
3. Community and Competition:
   • Both HYROX and CrossFit foster strong community environments and encourage competition, but CrossFit tends to have a broader range of workout types and more frequent daily community classes, while HYROX events are typically held as larger, organized races.

Who Can Compete? 

HYROX races are designed to be inclusive and cater to a wide range of fitness levels, making them accessible to a broad audience.  Whether you’re an elite athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or a beginner, there’s a category for you.  Want to join a team?  That’s cool, too!  They have team competitions where participants can compete in pairs or relay teams..  And, races include different age group categories, ensuring that participants can compete against others in similar age brackets.

How to Find a HYROX Race

HYROX races are literally held all across the globe and throughout the entire year.  From New York City to Melbourne, from Frankfurt to Dallas, it’s highly likely you live in a travelable proximity to one of these races.  Ready to compete?  Click here to find a race near you.  If you’d rather watch what you’re getting into before you sign up, the HYROX World Championships begin this Friday, June 7 in Nice, France and you can livestream all the action from their YouTube channel.

We don’t know what inspired Robin and Benny to sign up, or if there is potential for a Peloton component/partnership at some point down the road.  But, we LOVE seeing Instructors out there challenging themselves (Instructors…they’re just like us). Which Instructors would you like to see compete?  For that matter, would you sign up for a HYROX race?  Or, have you completed one?  Let us know!