Ever heard of Hyrox? No? Well, strap in, because Dubai’s latest fitness import/obsession has well and truly arrived.
Hyrox is a global fitness phenomenon – part-race, part-boot-camp – set to storm the Dubai World Trade Centre this February, promising to be a day of sweat, grit, and possibly a few tears.
For the uninitiated, Hyrox is what happens when you mix long-distance running with a series of grueling gym workouts. It’s an eight-round combo of 1-kilometer runs and functional exercises – from rowing and sled pushing to the universally daunting burpee broad jumps. This is not your average Sunday park jog.
What makes Hyrox stand out in the bustling world of fitness challenges is its inclusivity. It’s not just for the fitness freaks or the marathon runners. Whether you’re a newbie to the world of workouts or someone who counts their daily steps religiously, Hyrox has a spot for you. There’s no clock breathing down your neck or a prerequisite of Olympic-level fitness.
That said, the event’s structure is not for the faint of heart.
Hyrox targets every muscle group; it starts with session on the cardio-intensive SkiErg machine, then pushes your limits with a 50-meter sled push. After yet more back-and-forth sled pulls, you move on to burpee broad jumps, a 100-metre row, followed by a Farmer’s carry. Rounding off the circuit are sandbag lunges and wall balls.
While you compete against the clock, it’s not a solitary activity. It’s as much about the community as it is about the challenge. Participants and spectators alike create an atmosphere of camaraderie and support.
Hyrox Dubai kicks off on February 11 at the Dubai World Trade Center.