Hyrox emerges as Malaysia's new fitness craze

PETALING JAYA - HYROX, a standardised global fitness race that blends endurance running with functional fitness exercises, has evolved into a new phenomenon among Malaysians, with increasing numbers of people taking it up as a challenge to test their physical strength and endurance.

Combining an eight-kilometre run with eight functional fitness workout stations, the competition has gained traction, especially after Malaysia announced it will be hosting AirAsia HYROX Kuala Lumpur 2026, its first-ever HYROX event, in December.

Professional athlete and HYROX performance coach Aymarn Annuar, 37, said the sport is growing rapidly in Malaysia, in tandem with its rising popularity across Southeast Asia.

"HYROX is gaining popularity because it combines running with strength training. It presents a new challenge and Malaysians generally enjoy taking on challenges," he said during the launch of the Amazfit Balance 3 and Balance Ultra smartwatches.

He said HYROX is not limited to seasoned athletes as more gyms are now offering specialised training sessions in response to growing interest in the sport.

"Going to the gym is already part of many people’s routines, but the growing popularity of HYROX has encouraged more gyms to offer specialised training through the HYROX affiliate programme. This allows gym members to set a goal of competing in a race after completing structured training," he said.

He added that the HYROX community in Malaysia is expanding rapidly. At a recent race in Jakarta, more than 1,000 Malaysians took part in it, while participation by Malaysians in Singapore has also increased.

With more than a decade of experience in the fitness industry, Aymarn said female participation in HYROX is also on the rise.

"Participants can choose from the solo, doubles or relay categories based on their abilities. For those trying HYROX for the first time, I would recommend starting with the doubles or relay category," he said.

Meanwhile, professional HYROX athlete Mohd Saddam Pittli, 35, said his journey in the sport began in June 2024 after being introduced to it by his friend Callum Meehan, 26. Since then, he has competed in about 30 races across several countries.

He said one of HYROX’s unique appeals is that it is accessible to people of all fitness levels, allowing participants to challenge themselves according to their own capabilities.

"Many people feel they are not fit enough, but if you wait until you are fit, you may never start. Most of my friends also began without much interest or training. After trying it once, they continued participating, stayed active and set their own goals," he said.

He said many of the challenges in HYROX involve movements similar to everyday activities, such as pushing, lifting and carrying loads, making the sport more approachable for the general public.

"This has also contributed to the growing participation among people from various backgrounds who want to adopt a healthier lifestyle while testing their physical and mental endurance," he said. - BERNAMA