With CrossFit more or less done for, there's a new fitness obsession in town: HYROX. The event alternates eight one-kilometer runs with eight different workout stations: SkiErg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jump, rowing, farmer's carry, sandbag lunge and wall balls. It's very popular: the 2024-25 HYROX season saw 650,000 participants competing in 40 races from London to Cape Town.
More gym-goers are signing up for fitness competitions, ranging from obstacle courses to high intensity competitions and races, which combine cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Experts say the boom is driven by younger generations seeking connection as much as competition, with many of these workout devotees belonging to online fitness tribes of amateur athletes of all sizes and shapes. Women are entering events once dominated by men, while over-45s are signing up in increasing numbers.