Taylor Haney is a Hyrox and Deka World Champion, head coach/owner of Reach Functional Fitness Gym in Knoxville, Tennessee, husband and father.
In this conversation, Taylor and I discuss the popularity of Hyrox and why it has become so successful. Taylor explains how Hyrox bridges the gap between endurance sports and CrossFit, making it accessible for athletes who compete in both disciplines. Taylor also highlights the efficient management of the company and the high production level of the events as factors contributing to its success.
Taylor shares insights on how to prepare for a Hyrox event, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and training specificity. He also discusses the challenges and risks of competing as a high-profile athlete and the need for calculated training and event selection. Taylor provides advice on tapering for a Hyrox event and shares his perspective on the training and starting point of elite athletes.
He talks about his own training journey since a young age and the misconceptions around training youth.
Taylor shares his journey into fitness and how it became a lifestyle for him and his family. He emphasises the importance of having a supportive partner and never settling for a mediocre relationship.
Taylor also discusses the challenges and benefits of coaching online athletes and the importance of community.
Finally, Taylor gives his take on the 5 pillars of the GRAFT Concept with some awesome tips for growth, relationships, adventure, fitness, and teaching.
Takeaways
Hyrox is popular because it bridges the gap between endurance sports and CrossFit, making it accessible for athletes who compete in both but not at the elite level.
The efficient management of the company and the high production level of the events contribute to the success of Hyrox.
Hyrox is predicted to continue growing and expanding to more countries.
To prepare for a Hyrox event, athletes should focus on training specificity, with an emphasis on running and strength training.
Competing as a high-profile athlete comes with risks and challenges, and event selection should be carefully considered.
Tapering for a Hyrox event should include a specific training protocol in the week leading up to the race.
Elite athletes have different starting points and training approaches, but continuous improvement is possible for everyone.
Training youth can start at a young age, and misconceptions around youth training should be addressed.
Personal training journeys can vary based on starting points and individual abilities. Fitness can become a lifestyle that benefits both sports performance and overall health.
Having a supportive partner is crucial for personal growth and achieving goals.
Creating a community and engaging with others who share similar interests can enhance the fitness journey.
Embracing discomfort and trying new things is key to personal growth and adventure.
Fitness is a controllable aspect of life that can provide daily victories and empowerment.
Teaching and leading by example can have a positive impact on others and expand one's reach.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Popularity of Hyrox
05:07 Training Strategies for Hyrox Athletes
10:52 Structuring your Hyrox Season for Peak Performance
13:12 Effective Tapering for Hyrox Events
20:33 The Journey of Elite Hyrox Athletes
24:23 The Benefits and Considerations of Youth Training
26:35 Fitness for Children
28:30 Creating a Fit Lifestyle for the Family
29:27 The Importance of supportive relationship
35:22 The Impact of Fitness on Overall Well-being
43:56 Teaching and Leading by Example
Keywords
Hyrox, DEKA, growth, training, preparation, tapering, elite athletes, youth training, fitness, lifestyle, family, supportive partner, coaching, online athletes, community, growth, relationships, adventure, fitness, teaching