Why Hong Kong has fallen for the high-octane spectacle of Hyrox
Fuelling the hybrid race’s popularity is its inclusive nature, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities, and its festival-like atmosphere
Since launching in Hong Kong in 2022, Hyrox has exploded in popularity across all walks of life, with solo athletes, friends, family and colleagues of all ages competing in Hyrox’s Open, Doubles, Pro or Relay categories. Cigna Healthcare has been the title sponsor in Hong Kong for three years now, and Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong CEO Michael Khan says participation has more than tripled – from about 6,000 racers in 2024 to nearly 20,000 this year.
Reaching out through social media to speak with Hyrox racers in Hong Kong for this story, dozens of people – from total beginners to pro athletes – who had either finished a race or signed up to compete in the next one were eager to respond.
Khan says while Hyrox has been successful everywhere, “Hong Kong has always been quick to adapt to global trends … the response has clearly exceeded expectations.”
Hyrox, a sport for everyone
Walk into any fitness studio in Hong Kong right now, and you’d be hard-pressed to find one without some type of Hyrox class. Santina Philips, founder of Ursus Gym, one of the growing number of Hyrox-affiliated gyms in Hong Kong, has competed in every local Hyrox race since 2022.