Most people who enter a gym are doing great work. They lift weights to build muscle, they do cardio sessions to lose fat, and they often follow structured routines. There’s nothing wrong with that. But I think this approach is often too one-dimensional, unless you’re training for a bodybuilding competition. It focuses mostly on aesthetics or endurance, rather than on improving your body’s ability to move properly and on overall health and longevity. That’s why I choose to train like an athlete.
The benefits of an athletic training style
Athletic training or hybrid training is different because it combines strength, mobility and endurance in one holistic approach. Instead of isolating muscle groups or spending hours on the treadmill, I focus on functional movements that translate into strength and agility. Explosive strength, stability, coordination and adaptability are just as important as muscle growth or fat loss. This method not only makes me stronger, but also more resilient, capable and prepared for anything. In the real world, we don’t just move forward or sideways; our bodies move in all sorts of directions. That’s why movement in all directions is so important.
How training for Hyrox shapes my approach
Athletes have long known that bodybuilding does not prepare them for their sport. Professional rugby players or soccer players know that movements in real game situations are complex, so their training must reflect that complexity. As a Hyrox athlete, I also need a multi-faceted approach to fitness. Hyrox is a demanding sport that combines endurance with strength, speed and functional movements. If I focused solely on lifting heavy weights or logging endless running miles, not only would I neglect important aspects of my performance, but I probably wouldn’t make it to the end of the challenging course. Instead, my training consists of a mix of strength training, intense conditioning workouts, mobility exercises and endurance training. I train my body to be strong, but also to move efficiently and recover quickly.
Why athletic training works for everyone
The truth is that athletic training is not only good for competitive athletes, it is the best approach for almost everyone. Life does not consist of isolated movements in one direction. Whether you are running errands, playing with your kids or just trying to stay healthy, you need a body that is strong, mobile and ready for real life. Training like an athlete changes not only your appearance, but also how you move, feel and perform in everyday life.
So why limit yourself to a limited approach? If you really want to be fit, train like an athlete!
Need help transitioning to an athletic program? Download my training app or come train with me in Rotterdam. If you live farther away then 1:1 online coaching might be for you.
