Hyrox vs CrossFit: What’s the Difference and Which One Fits You?
Fitness trends come and go, but two training styles have built massive, loyal communities: Hyrox and CrossFit. Both promise strength, conditioning, and improved athletic performance, but they’re not the same.
Whether you're looking for a new challenge, a clearer training goal, or a competitive outlet, understanding the difference between Hyrox and CrossFit can help you choose the one that fits your goals, personality, and training style.
This guide breaks down how each works, how they differ, and which one may be the better fit for you.
What Is Hyrox?
Hyrox is a global fitness race designed to test endurance, strength, and pacing in a standardized format. Every Hyrox competition follows the same structure:
8 functional workout stations paired with 1 km runs between each station.
Total race distance: 8 km running + 8 functional workouts.
Typical stations include:
SkiErg: tests cardiovascular endurance and upper-body pulling strength.
Sled push & sled pull: builds leg power and overall functional strength.
Burpee broad jumps: combine explosive movement with endurance.
Rowing: works full-body strength and aerobic capacity.
Farmer’s carry: develops grip, core, and shoulder stability.
Sandbag lunges: target lower body strength and balance.
Wall balls: combine squats and overhead throws to test strength endurance.
Hyrox is essentially a hybrid endurance event - part running, part functional fitness - with predictable programming.
Join a class that challenges you, supports you, and keeps you moving - find your fit at CrossFit Sanitas!
What Is CrossFit?
CrossFit is a workout program that combines several types of exercise in one class, like lifting weights, doing bodyweight moves, and cardio such as running or rowing. You’ll also practice real-life strength skills, like carrying or pushing. The workout changes each day, so you keep improving your strength, fitness, and overall conditioning.
Workouts, known as WODs (Workout of the Day), include:
Barbell lifts: deadlifts, cleans, and snatches to build strength and power.
Gymnastics movements: pull-ups, muscle-ups, and handstands for skill and body control.
Cardio: rowing, running, double-unders for endurance and conditioning.
Functional strength exercises: sled pushes, carries, sandbags for practical fitness.
CrossFit develops strength, speed, agility, coordination, and endurance, not just one fitness element.
Find the perfect fit for your fitness journey - your guide to choosing the right CrossFit gym in Boulder!
Comparison Table: Hyrox vs CrossFit
| Feature | Hyrox | CrossFit |
|---|---|---|
| Training Style | Steady endurance + functional stations | Strength, skills & conditioning, changes every day |
| Primary Focus | Running + strength endurance | Strength, power, speed, skills, metabolic conditioning |
| Skill Level | Low – simple movements | Moderate to high – lifting & gymnastics |
| Competition Format | Standardized worldwide | Varied workouts each day and season |
| Workout Duration | 60–90 minutes (race) | 60-minute classes with strength component + 5–25 min more intense workout (typical) |
| Goal Type | Pacing, endurance, grit | Speed, strength + power, skill mastery |
| Community Feel | Race-based community | Gym-based daily community |
Faster recovery, better performance - discover how CrossFitters bounce back so quickly!
Which One Fits You?
Your choice depends on your fitness personality, goals, and preferred atmosphere.
Hyrox may be right for you if:
You enjoy running
You like predictable training and clear metrics
You want a structured test of fitness
You prefer low-skill workouts
You aim to train for race-style events
CrossFit may be right for you if:
You enjoy variety in workouts
You want to build strength and learn new movements
You thrive in a community-focused environment
You value coaching and technique development
You want a balanced, multi-dimensional approach to fitness
Many athletes even train in both styles at different times to gain endurance and strength simultaneously, or to use CrossFit to train for an upcoming Hyrox race.
Related Articles:
CrossFit for Beginners: What to Expect in Your First Class
Why CrossFit Sanitas Could Be the Right Fit for You
Fitness is more than just movement; it’s about progress, consistency, and support. At CrossFit Sanitas, our programs are designed to challenge all fitness levels through daily functional workouts that combine strength, endurance, and mobility.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, our coaches guide each session to ensure proper form and provide scalable options to meet your goals. Our supportive community plays a vital role alongside the workouts. Members motivate one another, celebrate milestones, and stay accountable, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Our approach helps you build confidence, improve overall fitness, and prepare for competitions or personal challenges. With programs tailored to your needs and a supportive team by your side, CrossFit Sanitas could be the right fit for your fitness journey. Join us today and take the first step toward reaching your goals!
Lift smarter, not heavier - learn why focusing on form over weight is CrossFit’s key to long-term success.
Can Hyrox and CrossFit Work Together?
Absolutely. Many athletes combine training from both worlds.
Hyrox helps CrossFitters build aerobic engines and pacing.
CrossFit helps Hyrox athletes develop power, strength, muscle endurance and movement capacity.
If your gym offers hybrid programming, you can take advantage of both training styles without burning out.
Plan your next workout with ease - check out our full CrossFit Sanitas schedule!
Final Thoughts
Both Hyrox and CrossFit deliver excellent fitness results, but they serve different personalities and goals. Hyrox is structured, predictable, and endurance-heavy. CrossFit is always changing, skill-building, and well-rounded for overall fitness. The best choice depends on whether you want steady endurance training or a multi-dimensional fitness experience with strength, skill, and community.
If you know your fitness goals, whether it’s performance, weight loss, strength, or competition, your answer becomes clear. Still unsure? Try a few CrossFit classes and follow a Hyrox-style workout week. Your preference will reveal itself quickly.