Hyrox is not your typical workout class. Combining functional fitness classes, endurance racing and high-intensity competitions, it is now being dubbed by many as the ‘world series of fitness’. Hyrox is quickly gaining momentum all around the world, including here in Limerick.
Set up to test both strength and stamina by blending running with a variety of workout stations in a race format. I asked the question: What actually is Hyrox and why is it attracting people from all sides of the fitness world?
To learn more about what makes this so unique, I spoke to Tony Barry, owner of Tony’s Hyrox based on the Ballysimon Road here in Limerick. A former member of the Defence Forces, Tony was always into fitness from a young age.
The trainer first opened a gym by the name of Crossfit Treaty, which he loved, before selling it to his business partner after being introduced to Hyrox.
“I just thought Hyrox was the way to go because of its accessibility. Everyone can do it, it doesn’t matter who you are, shape, size, it doesn’t matter. Everyone can do it. It’s just so accessible,” said the gym owner.
Sticking with the brand’s slogan, ‘the fitness competition for every body’, Tony truly believes that and has seen what it has done for his clients both physically and mentally.
By his definition, Hyrox is running, pushing, pulling, carries, and it’s just accessible to everyone. It’s a sport that anyone can do, no matter the fitness level and no matter where you are in life. “I feel it needs you and gives you the ability, like to set a benchmark and then try and try to beat that benchmark,” Tony said.
First beginning with 40 members, Tony’s Hyrox Limerick has now seen a nearly 650% increase, with the gym now being home to almost 300 dedicated members.
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On why it has become so popular within the last year, the Hyrox world champions participant believes the “massive community element” plays a major part in this and “I know I keep coming back to this, but it’s really just for everyone,” said the trainer.
While each Hyrox class differs in the workouts involved, a typical class would involve running eight separate stations, with each one looking to improve the strength and stamina of those participating. “We do a lot of strength,” said Tony. “I find people that when they get into it, they go all in and just keep doing the same thing over and over and over again.”
He stated: “I’m just trying to teach them. I suppose, you need to lift, not a really heavy weight, you just need to lift weights, you know, you need to find the balance of Hyrox, strength training, functional fitness, it all needs to fit in one. That’s what I try and do in the gym. With Hyrox, you can do everything.”
For those looking to join Hyrox and may feel intimidated, Tony states that all that is required is your best effort.
“I will meet everyone where they are. It’s just consistency. All I want to see is people to keep showing up. If you’re new to fitness, you’re going to find it hard. If you’re not new to fitness, you’re going to excel really quickly,” he added.
On why he does this and what it means to him, Tony said, “Getting people who come into the gym that are so scared of running and training to actually go do a Hyrox competition, and the sense of achievement and accomplishment they get from that, like, I would give up my flags and my world championship qualifications for that.”
As Hyrox continues to grow in popularity, it is clear that this is not just a new fitness trend but a test of mental grit and physical capability. It is clear that whether you are a seasoned athlete or someone looking to start your fitness journey, Hyrox offers a unique challenge that is as rewarding as it is intense.
From speaking with Tony Barry, he has given insight into how Hyrox isn’t just a race, it’s a community and one that is built for anyone willing to put in the work. So, if you are curious about this new fitness phenomenon, now is the time to show up and find out what you are really made of!
