What is HybridNW? Hybrid racing explained, and how to train for your first race
- HybridNW is a hybrid fitness race series from the North West: a run before each of 9 workout stations, then a 200m sprint finish.
- You can race solo or as a pair, and you don't need to be an athlete to take part.
- HybridNW Telford is on Saturday 9 January 2027. ORE's code ORE10 gets you 10% off your entry.
- ORE CrossFit is an official HybridNW affiliate gym. Our HYBRID class runs every Friday at 18:30, and your first session is free.
Hybrid fitness racing has exploded over the last few years. Instead of just running, you run and work through a series of functional exercises, like rowing, wall balls, carries and a sled push. HybridNW is one of those races, and it comes to Telford in January. Here's what it involves, who it's for, and how to get ready for your first one.
What is HybridNW?
HybridNW is a hybrid fitness race series that started in the North West of England and now holds events at big venues across the North of England and in Telford. It was set up by personal trainer Kieran Higgens.
How does a HybridNW race work?
The format is simple to follow:
- 9 workout stations, each with a 600m run before it.
- A 200m sprint finish to the line.
- You can race solo, or as a doubles pair who share the work.
The stations can change between events, so always check the event page, but past races have included an assault bike, wall balls, rowing, burpee broad jumps, walking lunges, dumbbell snatches, a farmers carry, the SkiErg and a sled push. Weights differ for men and women.
Is HybridNW the same as HYROX?
No. They're separate race brands. You've probably heard of HYROX, the biggest hybrid race in the world. HybridNW uses a similar idea, running combined with functional stations, but it's an independent series with its own stations, weights and events, and it's closer to home.
We'd argue HybridNW is the more accessible of the two, especially for a first race. The running is shorter: 9 runs of 600m (about 5.4km in total, plus the sprint finish), compared with 8 runs of 1km (8km) at HYROX. And in our experience, entries are simpler to get, without the rush for tickets that the biggest events can have. The good news is that the fitness you build for one carries over to the other.
Who is it for?
More people than you'd think. It suits you if you:
- want a fitness goal to aim for, rather than training with no end point;
- like the idea of doing it with a friend (doubles is a great first race);
- already train and want to test your all-round fitness;
- enjoy a mix of running and strength rather than one or the other.
You don't need to be a runner. Walking parts of the runs is completely fine.
HybridNW Telford: Saturday 9 January 2027
HybridNW Telford is right on our doorstep. If you're thinking about entering, ORE's affiliate code ORE10 gets you 10% off your entry. You'll find the details and entry on the HYBRID page.
How to train for your first HybridNW
Eight to ten weeks is plenty of time to get ready for your first race if you train regularly. Here's what we'd focus on:
- Build your running base. You'll run 9 x 600m plus a sprint, so get comfortable running, then working, then running again.
- Practise the stations. Wall balls, lunges, carries and the sled are where most people lose time. Learning to move well makes them far easier.
- Train strength as well as cardio. Stronger legs and grip make every station feel lighter, which saves energy for the runs.
- Learn to pace. The most common mistake is going too hard on the first run. Practise holding a steady pace you could keep going for the whole race.
- Rehearse with your partner. If you're racing doubles, train together and agree how you'll split each station.
Training for HybridNW in Telford
ORE CrossFit is an official HybridNW affiliate gym. Our weekly HYBRID class, every Friday at 18:30, covers exactly this mix of running, functional strength and conditioning, with a coach scaling every part to you. Our CrossFit classes build the strength and skills that make the stations easier. And you don't have to race: most people come to HYBRID simply to get fitter.
Your first HYBRID session is free. Book your free session, bring trainers and a water bottle, and arrive about 10 minutes early. There's free parking on site in Halesfield.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be fit to do HybridNW?
No. You don't need to be an athlete, and walking parts of the runs is fine. If you train regularly for 8 to 10 weeks beforehand, you'll be ready to enjoy it.
Can I do HybridNW as a pair?
Yes. HybridNW has solo and doubles categories. Doubles is a great way to do your first race with a friend, because you share the work at each station.
Is HybridNW the same as HYROX?
No. They're separate race brands. Both combine running with functional workout stations, but HybridNW is an independent series with its own stations, weights and events. With 9 runs of 600m rather than 8 runs of 1km, and simpler entry, it's arguably the more accessible first race. ORE CrossFit is an official HybridNW affiliate gym, and our HYBRID class builds fitness for any hybrid race.
When is HybridNW Telford?
HybridNW Telford is on Saturday 9 January 2027. Use ORE's affiliate code ORE10 for 10% off your entry.
Where can I train for HybridNW in Telford?
ORE CrossFit, an official HybridNW affiliate gym at Unit E5, Halesfield 5, Telford TF7 4QJ, runs a coached HYBRID class every Friday at 18:30. Your first session is free.
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