Winning in team-based fitness competitions like HYROX isn’t just about strength – it’s about smart strategy, trust, and teamwork.
On June 9, 2024, at the HYROX World Championship in Nice, France, Jake Dearden and Marc Dean proved exactly that as they crossed the finish line to claim victory in the relay category. Their success, along with insights from other elite competitors, offers valuable lessons for anyone preparing to take on a team-based fitness race.
💡 The Winning Formula: Strategy + Support
Red Bull athlete and HYROX elite competitor Ida Mathilde Steensgaard emphasizes that clear communication is the cornerstone of a successful team.
In high-pressure situations, things don’t always go as expected — a teammate might tire earlier than planned or struggle on a specific movement. This is when flexibility becomes your greatest asset. Steensgaard encourages teams to adjust roles, make quick decisions, and support each other on the fly.
“Help each other out,” she says — because empathy and adaptability go a long way.
🧠 Train Smart, Not Just Hard
Jake Dearden, now a HYROX Doubles World Champion, reinforces the idea that pacing and teamwork are key to success. Training together allows team members to understand each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and limits — learning when to push, when to pull back, and how to balance workloads efficiently.
That said, he also stresses the importance of a solid fitness foundation. Strength and conditioning still matter — they just aren’t the only factors that lead to the podium.
✅ Top Tips for Fitness Racing as a Team
- Communicate Clearly – Talk through your strategy and roles ahead of time.
- Be Ready to Adapt – Stay flexible during the race. Adjust your game plan if needed.
- Train Together – Understand each other’s rhythm and strengths.
- Support Each Other – Encourage and step in when your teammate needs help.
- Pace the Race – Don’t burn out early; control your effort as a unit.
- Build a Strong Foundation – A good base of strength and endurance is still essential.
Final Word
In HYROX and other team fitness races, physical strength may get you started — but it’s strategy, empathy, and trust that get you across the finish line together. As proven by champions like Steensgaard, Dearden, and Dean, the strongest teams aren’t just powerful — they’re smart, adaptable, and united.