The global fitness phenomenon Aussies can't get enough of
If you buy into social media even slightly, chances are you've heard of HYROX.
It's the event splashed across feeds and 'For You' pages alike, and is currently considered the leading mass-participation race globally.
And now thousands of Aussies are gearing up for the event's latest iteration in Melbourne this week, in what has rapidly grown into one of the country's biggest hybrid fitness movements.
HYROX has taken over the world seemingly overnight. dpa/picture alliance via Getty I
It follows a record run for HYROX across Australia, with the 20,000-strong Sydney event earlier this year becoming one of the highest-attended HYROX races in the world.
Globally, the sport is expanding at breakneck speed.
Initially founded in Germany in 2017 by Christian Tötzke and former hockey world champion Moritz Fürste, the competition now runs across Europe, North America, Asia and Australia.
Today, more than 100 events are on the calendar as HYROX cements itself as one of the world's fastest-growing fitness competitions.
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Participating in HYROX has become the go-to move for fitness influencers and athletes alike. dpa/picture alliance via Getty I
But what is HYROX all about? Here's a look into the fitness phenomenon Aussies can't get enough of.
What is a HYROX workout?
HYROX is an endurance test built around one very consistent format; a series of eight one-kilometre runs, each interspersed with various strength workouts.
There are no surprises, nor variations – with the circuit retaining the exact the same structure at every event across the globe.
This is a huge part of the event's appeal, with course results obtained in Melbourne being directly comparable to those coming out of London, Chicago or Hong Kong.
The HYROX workout is a gruelling circuit-style course, including 1km runs interspersed with various workouts. Siena Hocking
Wherever you are, the criteria remains the same, meaning participants' performances are officially ranked on a global leader board.
The respective fitness stations include a killer combination of SkiErg sprints, sled pushes and pulls, burpee broad jumps, rowing machines, farmers carries, sandbag lunges and, finally, wall balls.
Why is it popular?
HYROX's biggest selling point is its accessibility.
While the course is undeniably tough, the sport is designed for "everyday athletes" who don't necessarily have elite training backgrounds.
You can either participate solo, or with a buddy - but you must complete the course together. Getty
The event offers singles, doubles and relay divisions – so you can take it on alone, or bring a mate to share in your suffering.
The atmosphere at events also proves to be a massive drawing card, with people coming out in spades to cheer on friends and strangers alike from the comfort of the side lines.
It also doesn't hurt that HYROX has officially transitioned into into mainstream culture, with major brands (including Rebel Sport) now partnering with the event.
Media coverage and exposure has surged as participation numbers steadily climb, making it the new gold standard for fitness nuts to aspire to.
How do you train for HYROX?
Most HYROX training focuses on blending steady running with functional strength work.
Ever wanted to participate in HYROX? Well here's how you can train. Getty
Because each kilometre run is followed immediately by a workout station, athletes train their bodies to switch smoothly between cardio and strength under fatigue.
Interval running, sled practice, wall ball technique and grip strength all play major roles in the competition, with many competitors participating in simulation sessions in the leadup.
The key is to mimic race day as closely as possible, slowly shedding minutes off your total course time as you go.
With HYROX's popularity booming, more gyms around Australia now offer HYROX-style classes and structured programmes designed specifically for the event.
How is it different from CrossFit or F45?
The HYROX boom is not set to be slowing any time soon. Getty
Although HYROX shares some DNA with CrossFit and F45, it sits in its own category.
CrossFit changes its workouts daily and often includes advanced lifting techniques, while F45 focuses on short, timed circuits.
HYROX, on the other hand, is a race with a standardised format that never changes. That consistency lets athletes measure improvement over time and compare results against competitors worldwide.
Tempted to participate in the next HYROX event?
Registration is done through the official HYROX Australia website – but you have to get in quick.
Events regularly sell out due to demand, with entry fees varying by city and division.
You can usually expect to shell out around 200 dollars for the but usually comparable to the price of similar large-scale endurance events.
And luckily you'll have a few months to prepare. The next shot Aussie athletes will have at conquering the gruelling course will be in Brisbane, in April 2026.
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