URGENT UPDATE: Hyrox’s cofounder and CEO, Christian Toetzke, has announced a significant shift in the competitive landscape of fitness races, revealing that categories are specifically designed to ensure “normal people” do not compete against those who resemble “Greek statues.” This development comes as Hyrox prepares for over 80 races globally in 2025, expecting to draw more than 550,000 participants.
In a just-released episode of the “Opening Bid” podcast, Toetzke emphasized the importance of separating competitors by fitness levels. He stated, “The guys that look like Greek statues — or the girls — they sign up for the pro division, which is much harder because you have to move much heavier weights around.” This strategic categorization aims to foster a more inclusive environment for participants, allowing varying fitness levels to compete without intimidation.
Hyrox, which originated in Germany in 2017, features a unique format where athletes complete eight functional workout stations interspersed with running one kilometer between each station. The competition has risen dramatically in popularity, with tickets now in high demand, likened to securing spots for major events like Glastonbury or Taylor Swift’s concerts. Toetzke confirmed that ticket prices hover around $110, reflecting the growing interest.
The competition is structured into two main categories: the “open” category for general fitness enthusiasts and the “pro” category for elite athletes. This distinction allows participants to feel more comfortable and engaged, as Toetzke explained, “So you feel more between normal people when you sign up for the open category.” Additionally, competitors are divided by gender to further enhance fairness and competition.
In a bold vision for the future, Toetzke expressed his ambition to elevate Hyrox to Olympic status by the 2032 Games in Brisbane, Australia. He noted that the organization plans to present a formal proposal to the International Olympic Committee, arguing that “gym fitness has to be represented at the Olympic Games.”
With this urgent announcement, Hyrox is poised to redefine competitive fitness, making it accessible to a broader audience while striving for global recognition. As the countdown to the 2025 series of competitions begins, all eyes will be on how this innovative approach will reshape the fitness landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates on Hyrox as the organization continues to break barriers and engage fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
