Joe Skipper calls HYROX “the best sport I’ve ever taken part in” after debut in London

Accustomed to spicing up his training schedule with different challenges, British long distance star Joe Skipper took part in his first HYROX event last weekend in London.

HYROX, which has grown massively in popularity since its launch in 2017 and boasted more than 90,000 athletes in 40+ global locations this year, is a “global fitness race for every body”.

Labelling the event as a “true test of fitness”, Skipper may well be the first of many triathletes to try their hand at the challenge to keep things entertaining during their off seasons.

“Massively underestimated”

Having had to call his season early after some unforeseen health issues, Skipper was keen to squeeze one more event into the year and despite a tough day out, had a great first HYROX hit out, which you can follow in the video below.

“HYROX, completed it! A true test of fitness. Absolutely awesome event, massively underestimated but really enjoyed it,” he said afterwards.

“Prior to starting the event I thought the sled push was what might undo me, but surprisingly it was actually my best event of the lot and the 13th fastest in the pro category.

“However, things went down rapidly after that and on the sled pull my lack of grip strength showed and it was let’s just say a very slow painful death!”

Having raced the best in the world over the Ironman distance and finished fifth at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Skipper has plenty of experience with the toughest of endurance events, but said that the HYROX event tested “everything”.

“I ended up finishing in 234th but would honestly say it’s probably the best sport I’ve ever taken part in, it tests everything, has a fantastic atmosphere and vibe as well.

“I think this sport is going to really blow up! Can’t wait to do another one at some point but definitely with some specific training oh and I’ve got a new found respect for the top hyrox athletes, amazing all round athletes.”