Event Overview
Hyrox London, held at the massive ExCeL London in the heart of the Docklands, is the flagship event for functional fitness in the UK. Expected to return in late November 2026, this event attracts thousands of athletes across Open, Pro, and Doubles categories. The atmosphere is nothing short of a fitness festival, with dark lighting, pumping music, and a roaring crowd that lines the entire running track. The ExCeL’s vast floor plan allows for a sprawling Roxzone and high-capacity stations, making it one of the most intense and high-energy Hyrox stops in the world.
Course Details & Terrain
The Hyrox format remains consistent: 8 rounds of a 1km run followed by a functional fitness station. However, the ExCeL layout is unique due to its sheer scale. The running track is usually a large loop around the perimeter of the hall. The floor is flat, hard concrete, which is fast but punishing on the joints.
The Stations:
- 1000m SkiErg
- 50m Sled Push
- 50m Sled Pull
- 80m Burpee Broad Jumps
- 1000m Row
- 200m Farmers Carry
- 100m Sandbag Lunges
- 75 or 100 Wall Balls
The "Roxzone" (the transition area) at the ExCeL can be long. You need to be strategically aware of where you enter and exit to ensure you aren't adding unnecessary distance to your race.
Who Should Enter? (Beginners vs. Experienced)
Experienced Athletes: For the Pro athlete, London is about precision. Every second in the Roxzone and every breath on the Sled Push counts. The competition here is world-class, providing the perfect opportunity to see how you rank against the UK's best and potentially qualify for the World Championships.
Beginners: Hyrox is the "race for everybody." If you can run and move weights, you can finish. The London event is particularly good for beginners because the crowd energy is so high that it’s almost impossible to quit. Entering as a Double is a fantastic way to experience the ExCeL vibe without the full individual workload.
Coach Raye's Race-Day Pro Tips
- The Sled Surface: The carpet at the ExCeL can feel "sticky" depending on the humidity and usage. For the Sled Push, keep your hips low and use short, powerful steps. Do not try to sprint; find a relentless rhythm.
- Master the Roxzone: The distance between the run exit and the stations can be significant. Use the first 20-30 meters of the Roxzone to lower your heart rate and grab a sip of water, but then move with purpose. Don't let “dead time” ruin your split.
- Save Your Legs for the Lunges: The Sandbag Lunges at station 7 are often where the race is won or lost. Practice lunging when your heart rate is at 90% of its max. On race day, keep the bag high on your neck to maintain an upright posture and better breathing.
How to Train for This Event
Hyrox isn't just about strength; it’s about “compromised running”—the ability to run fast immediately after heavy lifting. Raye’s specialized Hyrox training plans delivered via WhatsApp integrate running intervals with functional movements like wall balls and burpees. Raye monitors your workout intensity and tailors your taper so you arrive at the ExCeL with fresh legs and a clear pacing strategy. Ready to take on the London challenge? Let Raye coach you to your fastest time yet.