Race guide
HYROX Singles, Doubles and Relay
Singles, Doubles and Relay use the same HYROX identity but create different workloads and team decisions. Choose according to the experience you want, the training you can complete and whether reliable partners are available.
Updated 15 September 2026
Compare formatsSingles
One athlete, full race
Doubles
Two athletes run together
Relay
Four athletes share legs
Best choice
Match your goal
Singles: the complete individual test
A Singles racer completes every run and every repetition or distance at all eight stations. It offers the clearest personal benchmark and requires the broadest preparation. You need enough running durability, strength and station skill to manage the full sequence yourself.
- Best for athletes who want an individual result and full-race challenge.
- Training must cover every station rather than relying on a partner’s strength.
- Open and Pro provide different load options while keeping the running distance.
Doubles: shared work, shared decisions
In Doubles, both partners complete the running together and split workout-station work according to the rules. The race is not automatically easy: faster running and inefficient handovers can still create fatigue. Strong pairs decide where each athlete adds the most value.
- Choose a partner with compatible running pace and expectations.
- Practise station work changes rather than inventing the split on race day.
- Plan for both athletes to stay engaged even when one carries more of a station.
Relay: four focused race legs
A Relay team has four athletes and divides the eight run-plus-station blocks. Each athlete is responsible for assigned legs, which creates a shorter but often faster effort. Relay is accessible for groups, gyms and colleagues but still rewards station familiarity and clear handovers.
- Assign legs around movement strengths and running ability.
- Warm up for the intensity of a shorter effort.
- Read the current Relay rulebook because transition rules matter.
A practical decision test
Start with your reason for racing. If you want a personal benchmark, Singles is direct. If you want to train and race closely with one partner, Doubles is distinctive. If group experience and a concentrated effort matter most, Relay is often the best fit.
- Do not choose a division only because of ego or perceived difficulty.
- Confirm that partners can train together at least occasionally.
- Agree the goal—finish, compete or learn—before paying for entries.
Format comparison
This overview explains the practical difference. Always use the current official rulebook for detailed eligibility and movement rules.
| Format | Team size | Running | Station work | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singles | 1 | All 8 × 1 km | All eight stations | A complete individual benchmark |
| Doubles | 2 | Partners run together | Partners split work | Shared strategy and partner racing |
| Relay | 4 | Assigned run legs | Assigned station legs | Teams wanting shorter, faster efforts |
Equipment decisions
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Questions athletes ask
Frequently asked questions
Is HYROX Doubles easier than Singles?
Doubles reduces individual station volume because work can be shared, but both partners still run together. Pace, transitions and the work split determine how difficult it feels.
How many people are in a HYROX Relay?
A standard HYROX Relay team has four athletes who divide the race legs according to the Relay rules.
Do Doubles partners have to stay together?
Partners run together and must follow the current Doubles rules for entering, completing and leaving workout stations. Check the latest event rulebook for exact requirements.
Next useful step
Train for your chosen format
Build running and station ability, then adapt combination sessions to your individual or team workload.