The HYROX fitness race has taken over US cities and is not showing any signs of stopping, but what is the attraction to this global trend? Let’s go to the beginning: HYROX started in Germany in 2017 and became one of the fastest growing fitness races in the world with the first North American event hosted in 2019 in Miami. Over the past 7 years, the race has expanded to 16 major U.S. cities and has grown into a fitness phenomenon. In June of 2026, New York City hosted over 40,000 HYROX participants over 10 days!
It has taken over as the hybrid fitness race which is largely due to the race design.
- The distance and exercises stay consistent from city to city, so there is no guessing the workout.
- The race is run in waves, so you’re never really sure who is in first or last. It is designed to truly be completed at your own pace.
- It is a strength, endurance, and overall fitness challenge, but the exercises are meant to utilize movements the body is already familiar with.
- The race can be done solo, with a partner, or with a relay team.
- And the best part, spectators can cheer you on the entire time!
HYROX Race Format:
1 kilometer run
1,000m ski erg
1 kilometer run
50m sled push
1 kilometer run
50m sled pull
1 kilometer run
80m burpee broad jump
1 kilometer run
1,000m row
1 kilometer run
200m farmer’s carry
1 kilometer run
100m sandbag lunges
1 kilometer run
100 wall balls
If you’re still not sure, check out one of our HYROX small group trainings available at all Merritt Clubs.
