HYROX has introduced the official rules for Adaptive Divisions & Qualification for the 2024/25 World Championships in Chicago.
The HYROX Adaptive Division is a groundbreaking addition to the competition, designed to create an inclusive environment where athletes of all abilities can compete.
We have summarised the Adaptive Divisions Rule Book at a high level in this article but encourage you to read the full Rule Book on the HYROX website, here. This will provide the most up-to-date guidelines on distances/rules for each functional station.
Divisions and Classifications
To accommodate athletes with varying physical impairments, HYROX has developed the following adaptive divisions:
Lower Limb Impairment (limited function of mobility in the legs)
Upper Limb Impairment (reduced function or mobility in the arms)
Short Stature Impairment (short height due to skeletal conditions)
Visual and Hearing Impairments (partial or total loss of vision or hearing)
Neurological Impairments
- Neurological Major (severe muscle weakness, nervous system or coordination condition)
- Neurological Minor (Milder muscle weakness, nervous system or coordination condition)
Seated Impairment
- with hip function (SWHF)
- without hip function (SWOHF)
- without core function (SWOC)
If your impairment does not fall within the listed divisions, HYROX encourages you to contact them directly. The system is an ongoing project and they highly value feedback to ensure a more inclusive and accurate classification process.
Registration
Head to www.hyrox.com and choose the city you wish to compete in from the “Find my Race” section. Purchase an Individual Adaptive ticket and select your impairment.
Running/Pushing Distance
The run (or push) distance remains standardised at 1km between the functional stations, however athletes with neurological impairments or short stature complete 1 lap (approx. 350 metres).
Guide Runner
All athletes may compete with a guide runner to assist with positioning and orientation – however they may not assist the athlete with competing the functional stations. HYROX does not provide guide runners, but using one is free of charge.
Special Equipment
HYROX will only provide standard race equipment and weights – any additional equipment must be provided by the athlete. The only exception to this rule is that HYROX does provide a lap mat for seated athletes during the Farmer’s Carry.
Wrist Straps or Hooks
If an athlete needs to use additional equipment that take time to attach, please email HYROX upon registration so that they can deduct this handling time from your overall finishing time.
Functional Stations – Distance and Adaptions
Please consult the full Rule Book on the HYROX website, here.
HYROX World Championships
The top three athletes in each adaptive division throughout the regular season earn invitations to the HYROX World Championships.
Winners are crowned as champions in their respective divisions, though adaptive athletes do not compete for prize money or the overall title of “World Champion of Fitness Racing.”
The event is a celebration of inclusivity and excellence in adaptive sports, with HYROX retaining the right to issue wildcards to deserving athletes.
