Earlier this week, we discussed the process of training for Hyrox, so if you are thinking of doing an event, make sure to review that. You can check out that post here.
If we compare Hyrox with conventional training for aesthetics, one thing stands out that is a positive at this point in time: performance. If training for Hyrox, you will probably do strength & cardio work, but rather than the focus being your physique (it may be a secondary focus), the
primary focus is on performing better. At a time where our culture is image-obsessed (see the rise of cosmetic surgery, hair transplants, breast augmentation, 'Turkey teeth', etc.), I think that moving fitness in the direction of performance & health is a positive.
This is what we always emphasise at Triage: balance between the 3 pillars - health, performance, and
body composition.
When we have clients that are heavily focused on image / aesthetics, particularly to their detriment (e.g. body image concerns coupled with disordered eating or social dysfunction), we strongly emphasise performance goals as a means of refocusing fitness toward the other pillars. Therefore, Hyrox as a trend, as well as other phenomena such as
running & hybrid training (which became a lot more popular during the COVID years with the closure of gyms), receives a warm welcome from me.
There is nothing wrong with bodybuilding
training, nor am I suggesting that Hyrox is something special, but sometimes, we need a general shift in focus without the pendulum swinging back all the way. We are still in a position where we encourage body composition change, support clients with physique goals, and often help people get in ridiculous shape (just check out our client results). But, it's
all about selecting what's right for you or your client at a given point in time.
Right now, I encounter ordinary novice gym-goers all the time who compare themselves to the best of the best on TikTok, Instagram, etc. And, unfortunately, this comparison often leads these individuals to excessive self-criticism, low self-esteem, and discouragement. Of course, some
have the opposite experience, but this is something we should pay attention to, particularly as coaches.
As we move forward, I expect to see more people engaging with performance-based activities, along with a greater focus on health & longevity. In some cases, the pendulum can swing too far in those directions too, as we see in cases of overtraining (performance),
or micromanaging & health anxiety (health). But, overall, I think some course-correction will lead us down a better path as an industry, and I look forward to seeing what unfolds throughout the rest of this decade.
At Triage, we will continue to emphasise the 3 pillars, without going all in on one. I want you to be healthy, to perform well, and to be in good shape.
Balancing all 3 is more than possible, which is what we are all about!
