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Hyrox, the challenging all-new way of racing combining running with functional workouts, is experiencing a popularity boom in Australia with a staggering +410% increase in Australian online searches for the term ‘Hyrox’ within 12 months. 

Hyrox combines eight kilometres of running with functional workouts and is fast becoming a favourite among fitness enthusiasts nationwide. With four race categories -Open, Pro, Doubles, and Relay - Hyrox caters to all fitness levels, making it one of the most inclusive yet demanding fitness events on the global stage.  

Hyrox World Competitor, Athlete and Lifespan Fitness expert, Peter Day, who is also in Australia’s top 10 for competing in the Hyrox World Championships, explains why this trend has Australians hooked and weighs in on both the benefits and potential drawbacks of this high-intensity competition.

Day notes “what sets Hyrox apart is its accessibility. Unlike many competitive events that are exclusive to professional or advanced athletes, Hyrox welcomes participants of all abilities. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness novice, there's a race category for you. The variety of exercises involved means it plays to different strengths, offering something for everyone.

“As Hyrox continues to roll out across the country, it’s becoming a social activity as much as a fitness event. It's a fantastic way for people to connect while working out together, especially now that we are settling into a new year, a lot more people are searching for a new fitness challenge or regime to try.”

The global rise in functional fitness, which focuses on exercises rooted in natural movements and functional strength, is another factor contributing to Hyrox’s popularity with Day explaining “this trend moves beyond traditional cardio or weight training, and Hyrox embodies this shift perfectly.”

For beginners looking to take on the Hyrox challenge this year, there are key health benefits and risks to be aware of:

1. It builds strength, power, and endurance: Hyrox builds strength, power, and endurance through a combination of functional exercises from running, sled push/pull, burpee jumps, rowing, wall balls and more which elevates the heart rate while also enhancing muscle growth.  
2. Improves physical performance, boosts metabolism and promotes fat loss: This type of training not only improves physical performance but can also be beneficial in everyday activities requiring manual effort. Intense, interval-based training can help boost metabolism and promote fat loss when paired with proper nutrition and recovery.
3. Prioritise proper fuel, warm up and recovery to prevent burnout and injury: As with any high-intensity workout, there are risks. Hyrox can be particularly demanding, especially for beginners.

Without proper preparation such as warming up adequately or ensuring you’ve fuelled your body with the right nutrition, you could be more susceptible to burnout, fatigue, or injury.

Additionally, exercises like running, burpees, and lunges can place strain on the joints, particularly for participants unaccustomed to the volume of training required. It’s essential to listen to your body and be mindful of any existing physical conditions to avoid overexertion.

Day adds “preparation is crucial. No matter your fitness level, taking the time to properly warm up and assess your readiness will help you get the most out of this incredible event.”

Surge in Fitness Equipment Sales in Australia
The growing interest in Hyrox has also been reflected in Lifespan Fitness’ sales data. Over the past year (October 2023 – 2024), the company has seen significant uplifts in equipment sales:

• Stair Climbers: +100% increase
• Treadmills: +18% increase
• Racks, Weight Plates, and Weights: +15% increase
• Spin Bikes: +10% increase

Day continues “in recent months, we’ve had an influx of customers mentioning Hyrox when purchasing equipment for their home gyms. People are looking to train specifically for this event, and many are finding that a home gym set-up can be just as effective as traditional fitness venues.”

More information on Lifespan Fitness 

Image. Hyrox World Competitor, Athlete and Lifespan Fitness expert, Peter Day.

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