Searching for “High Rocks”? You’re not the only one
A lot of people hear the name wrong at first. What you’re actually looking for is HYROX. It’s a global fitness race that combines running with functional workout stations.
Once you understand how HYROX works, the next step is learning how to train for it properly. If you’re completely new, start HERE
What Is HYROX?
HYROX is a structured indoor fitness race designed to test both endurance and strength.
Every race follows the same format:
You run 1km. Then you complete a workout station. You repeat that eight times.
By the end, you’ve covered 8km of running and completed eight different functional challenges.
It’s simple on paper. It’s not simple once you’re in it.
Why People Search for “High Rocks”
Most people searching “High Rocks” are just new to HYROX.
The name gets misheard. It sounds like two words. And if you’ve only seen clips online or heard someone mention it, it’s easy to assume that’s what it’s called.
The important thing to know is this. If you’re searching for “High Rocks,” you’re in the right place. You’re just one step early.
Fortunately, HYROX hasn’t got anything to do with rocks… other than that, rumor has it this fitness craze used to be called Hybrid Rockstar… 😳
Although Co-founder Moritz Fürste confirmed on the Rox Lyfe podcast that the “Hybrid Rockstar” story is a myth.
What's it all about?
Each race follows the same structure worldwide, which is part of what makes it so competitive.
You don’t just turn up and hope for the best. You’re working through a fixed sequence of effort where poor pacing gets exposed quickly.
Here’s what you’ll face:
The SkiErg comes early. It feels manageable until your breathing starts to climb and you realise you’re already working harder than expected.
The sled push is where a lot of people get a wake-up call. If you go too hard here, you’ll feel it for the rest of the race.
The sled pull looks similar, but it hits differently. Grip, back, and positioning all matter more than people expect.
Burpee broad jumps are where rhythm can fall apart. If you panic your pace, it gets messy fast.
Rowing gives you a chance to settle, but only if you’ve managed your effort up to that point.
Farmers carry tests your grip and your ability to stay composed under load.
Sandbag lunges challenge your legs when they’re already fatigued.
Wall balls finish the race. This is where it becomes less about fitness and more about whether you can keep moving when everything is telling you to stop.
Why HYROX Feels So Tough?
The real challenge isn’t any one station.
It’s your ability to run well when your body is already under pressure.
Heavy legs. Elevated heart rate. Breathing not quite under control.
If you go out too hard early on, the race doesn’t forgive you later.
That’s where most people struggle. Not because they’re unfit, but because they haven’t learned how to manage effort properly across the full race.
Who HYROX Is For?
HYROX works because it sits in the middle.
Runners get exposed on the strength work.
Lifters get exposed on the running.
Beginners can enter and finish.
More experienced athletes can push for competitive times.
It’s accessible, but it’s not easy.
How to Train for HYROX (Properly)
This is where most people get it wrong.
They either:
- run a lot but ignore strength
- lift weights but avoid running
- or try random sessions with no structure
What actually works is combining both in a way that prepares you for how the race feels.
You need:
- consistent running to build your engine
- strength work that carries over to the stations
- and sessions that teach you how to move when you’re already fatigued
Because that’s the skill. Not just being fit, but being able to use your fitness under pressure.
HYROX Training in London
If you’re based around Monument, Bank, Liverpool Street or London Bridge, you’ve got access to everything you need to train for HYROX properly.
I coach out of The Gym Group Monument, which is fully set up for HYROX-style training. You’re not trying to piece things together or improvise sessions. You’ve got the space, the equipment, and the structure to train the way the race actually demands.
Being able to practise movements properly, manage your pacing between efforts, and get used to how your body feels under fatigue makes a big difference when race day comes around.
If you’re serious about preparing for HYROX and you’re training in central London, this is where that process becomes a lot more straightforward. Click HERE for Coaching.
What to Do Next?
Now that you know it’s called HYROX and how it works, the next step is simple. Get a plan.
Most people don’t struggle because they’re not capable. They struggle because they’re guessing their way through training.
If you want to go from “I think I can do this” to actually being ready for race day, you need structure.
That’s where coaching makes the difference.
HYROX Coaching in London
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably not just curious about HYROX. You’re thinking about giving it a proper go.
I’m a personal trainer based in central London, coaching out of The Gym Group Monument. I work with people who want to approach HYROX the right way. Not just getting through it, but actually feeling prepared and in control on race day.
I’ve been through the process myself. I know what it feels like to go out too hard, lose your rhythm, and spend the second half of the race just trying to hold on. Most people don’t need to get fitter. They need a better plan and a clearer approach.
That’s where I come in.
My coaching focuses on:
- building your engine without burning you out
- improving your ability to run under fatigue
- preparing you for the exact demands of the race
If you’re starting from scratch, I’ll show you how to build it up properly.
If you’ve already done a HYROX, I’ll help you clean up the areas that slowed you down.
