21-07-2025
Hyrox: What is this fitness event that came to Abu Dhabi last weekend?
It's amazing what we do nowadays to keep fit. From gym workouts to running, swimming to biking, they have become a normal part of our exercise regime. But there's a new kid on the block called Hyrox (an amalgam of the words hybrid and rockstar) which is becoming very popular.
The first event was held in Hamburg in 2018, but it gained global recognition last year when PUMA became an official partner. During the 2024/25 season more than 500,000 athletes took part across 90 races globally. Abu Dhabi just hosted the UAE's second Hyrox event of the year (after Sharjah in April) with thousands of people taking part. So what's the format and why has it become so popular?
Hyrox is a combination of eight different challenges split up with a 1km run before each one. These include fairly simple (but still tough) exercises like lunges, burpees and rowing. In total you run 8km and enjoy a full body workout once you add in the ski-erg, sled push and pull, wall balls and farmer's carry. The average time to finish a Hyrox race is 1 hour 30 minutes and it welcomes participants from all levels. You can even take part in pairs if you feel the 8 workouts and 8km of running is too much for you.
So why is it so appealing? 'Over 98% of our athletes complete their Hyrox race. With no finishing time restriction, and no qualification required to enter, Hyrox welcomes every participant with open arms. It is a race to run at your own pace, with the continuous support of friends, family and fellow participants,' a spokesman said.
Hyrox events have become so popular they normally have a long waiting list of athletes keen to take part. The UAE events were no different. Jonathan Bannister, Head of Marketing at PUMA Middle East said: 'The response has been incredible. The energy, the turnout, the community it all exceeded our expectations. It's clear that Hyrox has struck a chord with the UAE's fitness crowd, and what we're seeing is the beginning of a passionate and fast-growing Hyrox community in the region. There's a real appetite for this kind of challenge, and we're just getting started.'
There was a similar fitness craze in the early 2010s for CrossFit, which partnered with sportswear brand Reebok. But athletes often complained it was too hard to compete, or prone to injuries when they took part. Hyrox has been praised for being more inclusive and easier to finish. 'It's accessible and you don't need to be a pro athlete, but it's challenging enough to push your limits,' added Bannister. 'People love the structure, the measurable goals, and the feeling of accomplishment. Plus, it creates a real sense of belonging in the fitness world.'
This sense of community and belonging was clear to see last weekend, at Abu Dhabi's ADNEC with spectators loudly cheering on friends and family, and a party vibe across the arena. Entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast Ram Sadhvani, 52, took part in Hyrox Sharjah in April. 'I was intrigued with this new fast-growing sport and I wanted to see what the fuss was about,' he said. 'It's said to be similar to a half marathon, but I found it far ahead of it. Also, it made my regular strength work look like a joke. To do Hyrox, one has to do a lot of functional work.' Sadhvani recommended a six-month build-up for those who haven't done any exercise in a while. 'I'm actually enjoying the journey of the strength work that you have to put in it.'
Following Sharah and Abu Dhabi, Hyrox have plans to return later this year, with the goal to make the Middle East a Tier 1 destination on the global HYROX calendar - bringing together athletes, fitness fans, and newcomers alike. Hyrox-based gyms and coaches are popping up across the UAE to help people train for the event. Dubai-based Energy Camp had more than 30 of its members take part last weekend. Its CEO and founder Seena Akbary said: 'HYROX was never built to be easy. Not just fast runners or strong lifters, but athletes who could do both. It takes a unique level of fitness to have real strength and power while also holding serious endurance. That balance is rare, so making it through the full race is something to be proud of.'
Akbary, who recently secured the title of 2024 Hyrox Cape Town Champion, added: 'What really stood out was the way everyone supported each other. From start to finish, it felt like a proper tribe. I don't even like using the word community anymore because it gets thrown around so much these days, but what we experienced was real. The effect it had was powerful and honestly beautiful to watch.'
