HYROX is booming — in fact, it’s the world’s fastest-growing fitness competition. Keen to test yourself in the format? This article gives you all the do’s and don’ts plus a tailored training plan for beginners or early intermediates. Let’s go.
What is HYROX?
Basics first. HYROX is a fitness race where running meets functional training in a fixed format: 8 × (1 km run + 1 station). It sounds simple — and it is when you have a plan. You’ll find that plan right here: an 6-week programme with 3 sessions per week. See equipment alternatives and tips below the plan.
 
          
        
        
          
          
          
        
    
   
          
        
        
          
          
          
        
    
  What if I don’t have all the equipment?
No problem. Use these swaps — you’ll still get the training effect:
- SkiErg → any cardio machine (rower, bike, assault bike) or short hill reps.
- Sled Push → push a box/weight plate (if the surface allows), heavy walking lunges, hill sprints, hip thrust/glute bridge (with/without load).
- Sled Pull → DB/ring rows, banded rows, “gorilla rows”.
- Wall Balls → dumbbell thrusters or a heavy object (squat + push press).
- Farmer’s Carry → heavy tote/bags with handles (books or water jugs).
- Sandbag Lunges → walking lunges with dumbbells or a backpack.
Remember: the key is the movement pattern (push, pull, carry, squat, hinge) — not the exact piece of kit.
Scaling — you can always adjust
Use the plan as a starting point, and don’t be afraid to match it to how you feel on the day. Scale an exercise down rather than skip it. Quality reps at a steady pace beat “too much, too fast.” Technique before speed, always. And remember your breaks.
How to scale down
 Too much? Adjust instead of stopping. Try:
- Cut running to 600–800 m per round
- Reduce reps (e.g., 60 wall balls instead of 100)
- Use a slightly lighter load
- Skip one round
Checklist before you start
- Shoes: solid grip for turns and stability for push/pull.
- Layering: stay warm in breaks, ventilate in pace.
- Warm-up 8–10 min: easy cardio + dynamics (focus on hips/ankles/back).
- Rest plan: short, fixed rests beat long, random ones.
- Hydration & fuel: Stay hydrated before, during and after. Water + electrolytes on longer sessions. Aim for carbs + protein around training — consistency over perfection.
Pssst… Keep an eye on the EYDA calendar — we regularly host HYROX Simulation Races so you can test the flow in a safe setting.
 
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
        
          
           
          
        
    
  