We can now say that the world of hybrid fitness races has exploded. Where sports used to mean either strength or cardio, these new events combine the best of both worlds. With a mix of running, functional exercises, and challenging workouts, HYROX, GYMRACE, PROTOCOL SERIES, and TYRUN attract increasingly larger groups of athletes. But how do you choose which race suits you best?
Let's dive in!
HYROX: The worldwide classic
HYROX is without a doubt the main engine behind the popularity of hybrid races. The format is recognizable, tightly organized, and suitable for both recreational and competitive athletes. You alternate eight kilometers of running with eight precisely defined workouts, such as sled push, farmers carry, and wall balls.
What makes HYROX unique is its predictability. Every race, anywhere in the world, is built exactly the same. This allows you to perfectly measure yourself against others and your previous performances. That makes HYROX very strong for athletes who like structure and want to track their progress.
Still, its race is naturally tough. The combination of intensive strength stations and recurring running puts pressure on your endurance and technique. But if you enjoy a tight challenge and like working on both strength and cardio, HYROX is a top match.
GYMRACE: Accessible, challenging, and community-focused
GYMRACE has built a strong reputation in a short time, mainly due to its accessibility. The format's vibe is similar to HYROX, but it's often a bit shorter and less technical. That makes it ideal for beginners who want to get acquainted with the concept, but also for enthusiasts looking for a compact, explosive challenge.
What many participants mention as a plus? The atmosphere. GYMRACE feels accessible, energetic, and is all about having fun in competition. You see teams, friends, and gym groups pushing each other through the race. It's not just a sports event, it's an experience.
PROTOCOL SERIES: Technical, structured, and performance-oriented
The PROTOCOL SERIES clearly differs from the classic hybrid races. Here, everything is about precision. The workouts are tightly defined and follow a logical structure, often with a technical emphasis. Think controlled strength movements, time blocks, and clear standardization.
This format mainly appeals to athletes who like to work with technique or who already have experience in CrossFit. It's less "run from and to the station" and more "execute these blocks perfectly under high intensity."
As a result, the race feels very fair and measurable. PROTOCOL SERIES is perfect for athletes who like to work within a structured schedule and seek challenge in form, control, and efficiency.
TYRUN: Variety, fun, and a touch of adventure
TYRUN stands out in terms of originality. The hybrid base remains, but the game element makes the race surprisingly different. Workouts can vary per event, making it impossible to fully know what to expect. And that’s exactly what makes TYRUN so fun.
The vibe is less "competition" and more "challenge." Endurance lovers feel at home here, but also athletes who enjoy being surprised again and again. TYRUN feels playful, varied, and dynamic, ideal if you seek the thrill of the unexpected.
Which race suits you? The big comparison
No time for endless comparisons? Here is a concise overview to help you choose:
- Want a standardized race with clear benchmarks? → HYROX
- Looking for an accessible, social, and compact challenge? → GYMRACE
- Are you technically strong and like structured workouts? → PROTOCOL SERIES
- Want variety, fun, and surprising elements? → TYRUN
In the end, it simply comes down to what you enjoy. And sometimes you only know that after you’ve tried one.
How do you prepare for each race?
Whichever race you choose, good preparation makes a world of difference. A combination of strength, cardio, and functional exercises is essential. Think of:
- Strength endurance for sleds, carries, and lunges
- Interval training to train your heart rate zones
- Technical work for movements like burpees, wall balls, and kettlebell drills
Besides, it pays off to train specifically for the race. For example, simulate the blocks of HYROX, or work on technically precise sets if you are considering PROTOCOL SERIES.
And maybe the most important tip (cliché, but true) is to make sure you keep enjoying yourself during the preparation. Competitions are much more fun if the journey remains motivating.
Shop the right gear and start perfectly prepared
Whether you're starting for HYROX, GYMRACE, PROTOCOL SERIES, or TYRUN. The right gear can really make a difference. In our special hybrid training category, you'll find exactly the items that fit these hybrid races. This way, you step into the race well prepared.
