Has the Gym Become a Sport? Our Take on the Rise of Fitness Competitions Like Hyrox

In the latest episode of The Voice of Fitness Reason, we dive into a powerful shift that’s been reshaping the fitness industry: the rise of competitive fitness events like Hyrox, Athx Games, and CrossFit.

These events aren’t just for elite athletes anymore — they’re drawing in everyday gym goers looking for purpose, challenge, and community. But while they’ve made fitness more exciting and goal-driven for some, they’ve also raised questions about accessibility, body image, and what “being fit” really means.

Here’s a snapshot of what we explored on the pod (plus a few extras we didn’t have time to say out loud).

Fitness Has Officially Become a Sport

You’ve probably noticed it too: gym workouts that once focused on health and longevity are now mimicking the training routines of pro athletes. Events like Hyrox have exploded in popularity, offering a mix of endurance and functional strength exercises — think rowing, sled pushes, and wall balls — all done at speed, against the clock.

With slick branding, community buzz, and a clear finish line, these events give people something tangible to train for. No more “just trying to get fitter” - now it’s “I’ve got a Hyrox in eight weeks.”

Why This Movement Is Motivating

There are loads of positives to this shift, especially if you’re already training regularly:

• You’ve got a goal. Training for an event adds structure and focus to your workouts.

• There’s community. You feel like you’re part of something — a tribe of people who get it.

• You feel strong. Competitions celebrate strength and capability in a way that’s infectious.

• It’s more than aesthetics. You're training to do, not just to look a certain way.

Even KBC (my cohost and lifelong PT) admits she’s fallen in love with the Hyrox vibe — it’s fast-paced, inclusive, and incredibly empowering.

But… It’s Not for Everyone

That said, we also talked about the flip side - especially how these events might unintentionally alienate the very people we’re trying to help into fitness in the first place.

• It can feel intimidating. Walk into a gym and see people flipping sleds and sprinting on Assault runners? Not exactly welcoming if you’re just trying to ease into exercise.

• The vibe can feel exclusive. Social media is full of lean, shredded athletes — even KBC, who’s 39 and in great shape, said she felt uncomfortable at first with all the "young flesh" on display at her first Hyrox event.

• It sets a high bar. The message can become: “If you’re not training for a comp, what are you even doing here?”

• Not everyone wants competition. Some just want to move their body, de-stress, and feel better in themselves — without needing a medal at the end of it.

So Where Do We Go From Here?

The challenge now is making sure both types of fitness can coexist. We need room for people who want to compete — and those who just want to complete.

That’s where we see our role as coaches and community builders: To champion both paths, and remind you that you don’t have to “go Hyrox” to be strong, worthy, or fi. Celebrate every step you make - whether it's a podium finish or just showing up to move your body today.

Tune Into the Full Conversation

You can catch the full episode of The Voice of Fitness Reason wherever you get your podcasts. It’s packed with honest reflections, a few laughs, and our own experiences navigating this new world of performance-driven fitness.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just dipping your toe into the fitness world, we think you’ll find something in there that resonates.

Listen here:

Also available on Spotify / Apple and all decent podcast players

Hope it helps :)

FRANK

your Personal Trainer / Hyrox Virgin (so far....)