Back in 2021, I took on my first HYROX event, and since then, I’ve completed six Single Open races and two Doubles. But this time was special! To kick off 2025 in the most epic way possible, my wife and I teamed up for our first HYROX Doubles in Manchester, and what a ride it was!

A Deal Was Made
Now, let’s be honest—my wife was not exactly thrilled about the idea of doing a HYROX event. She had always been skeptical about the stress of competition, but after some negotiations, we struck a deal. I would take care of all the workouts—every single sled push, row, and burpee broad jump—while we would run the eight 1-kilometer stretches together at her pace. She dictated the tempo, and I just had to keep up.
And with that, we found ourselves at the HYROX Manchester event, surrounded by an incredible community of athletes, volunteers, and judges who created an atmosphere of support, excitement, and pure sportsmanship.

The HYROX Experience—More Than Just a Race
Manchester holds a special place in our hearts. During my time as Regional Performance Manager at UK Athletics, our family lived in the High Peak, just outside the city. Returning here for such an event added another layer of nostalgia and excitement.
From the moment we arrived, the energy in the air was electric. The HYROX UK community welcomed us with open arms, proving once again that this sport truly is for everyone—from elite competitors aiming for record times to first-timers just hoping to cross the finish line.
The volunteers were fantastic, offering words of encouragement at every station. The judges were supportive, ensuring that everyone met the standards but also cheering us on as we powered through each challenge. There were no egos—just a shared determination to finish strong.

Crossing the Finish Line—And What Comes Next?
As we ran our final kilometer, side by side, I could see it in my wife’s face: pride, determination, and a sense of accomplishment. She had done something she never imagined she would. And as we crossed the finish line, it was official—she was now part of the HYROX family.
So, will we do another HYROX Doubles together? Well, let’s just say I’ll have to ask her again next year... but I might have to sweeten the deal this time!

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Why HYROX is a Sport for Everyone
This experience reinforced something I’ve always believed—HYROX is one of the most scalable fitness competitions in the world. Whether you’re aiming for maximum performance or just looking to finish the race, this sport meets you where you are. It’s about progress, camaraderie, and pushing yourself in ways you never thought possible.
And no matter your goal—whether it’s improving your time, completing your first event, or simply staying active—there’s a place for you in the HYROX community.

Ready for Your Own HYROX Challenge?
If you’ve been on the fence about trying HYROX, let this be your sign. Grab a friend, set a goal, and step onto that competition floor. You might just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
So, what’s your next big fitness challenge? 

​At the start of each year, many of us set ambitious goals: exercising more, eating healthier, or going to bed earlier. Yet, despite our best intentions, we often struggle to maintain these new habits. So, how can we effectively initiate and stick to our desired changes?

Personally, I go through this process every year—reviewing my past goals and setting new ones as the year comes to an end. Over time, I’ve found it easier to achieve my goals and stick to strategies that work. But why is that? What does research say about how we can improve our ability to stay committed? Let’s explore!

The Two-Part Plan for Success
According to psychologist Peter Gollwitzer, a good plan consists of two essential components:
Goal Setting: Clearly define what you want to achieve. For example, instead of a vague aim like "I want to get fit," specify, "I will jog for 30 minutes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM."

Implementation Intentions: Develop concrete plans that outline when, where, and how you will perform the behavior. This involves creating "if-then" scenarios, such as, "If it rains on my jogging day, then I will do a 30-minute indoor workout instead."

Why Do We Often Fail to Stick to Our Goals?
Gollwitzer explains that while setting goals is crucial, it's not sufficient on its own. Many people fail because they don't anticipate obstacles or plan for them. By establishing implementation intentions, you're better prepared to handle challenges and stay committed to your objectives.

The Power of "If-Then" Planning
"If-Then" plans help automate our responses to specific situations. For instance:
If I feel too tired after work to exercise, then I will do a short 10-minute workout to maintain the habit. If I encounter unhealthy snacks at a party, then I will choose a smaller portion or opt for healthier alternatives.
These predetermined responses reduce the mental effort required to make decisions in the moment, increasing the likelihood of sticking to your goals.
Overcoming Common Obstacles
It's natural to face hurdles when trying to adopt new habits.

Here are some strategies to overcome common challenges:
Lack of Time: Schedule your activities as non-negotiable appointments in your calendar.
Loss of Motivation: Remind yourself of the reasons behind your goal and visualize the benefits of achieving it.
Unexpected Events: Have backup plans in place. For example, if you miss a workout, plan an alternative session later in the week.

Final Thoughts
Achieving your goals requires more than just motivation; it demands strategic planning and foresight. By clearly defining your objectives and setting detailed implementation intentions, you can navigate obstacles and stay on track. Over the years, I’ve noticed that this approach helps me stay consistent and adapt when necessary.
So, what goals have you set for yourself this year? Have you considered creating "if-then" plans to navigate potential challenges?