Brook Wells Transitions from CrossFit to HYROX: A New Strength Challenge

Brook Wells has spent years mastering the art of strength training, specifically designed for the rigors of the CrossFit Games. She burst onto the scene as one of the youngest athletes to qualify for the Games at just 19 years old in 2015, and continued to compete for nearly a decade, retiring from CrossFit in 2025. However, the competitive spirit of Wells could not remain dormant for long. With the rise of HYROX, a sport that combines endurance racing with functional workouts, she decided to embrace this new challenge.

HYROX presents a stark contrast to CrossFit. While CrossFit emphasizes short bursts of high-intensity strength work across multiple events, HYROX is structured as a continuous endurance race, requiring athletes to alternate between running and functional workout stations over the course of approximately an hour. This shift necessitated a complete overhaul of Wells' training regimen, forcing her to rethink not only her physical conditioning but also her mental approach to competition.

Wells' background in gymnastics, where she trained rigorously for hours each day, laid a strong foundation for her athletic career. However, her transition to CrossFit and now HYROX has required her to adapt her training focus significantly. Initially drawn to CrossFit to enhance her speed on the track, Wells quickly found herself captivated by the sport itself. Her dedication paid off, as she became a well-respected figure in the CrossFit community over her ten-year career.

After retiring from CrossFit, Wells wasted no time in diving into her first HYROX competition, just nine weeks post-retirement. The primary difference she noted between the two sports is pacing; CrossFit involves multiple events spread over several days, while HYROX requires sustained effort in a single session. This new format has changed how Wells trains, leading her to increase her running frequency significantly. Instead of lifting weights five to six days a week, she now incorporates running sessions three to four times weekly, blending long runs with interval training.

Rethinking Recovery and Training

Wells emphasizes the importance of recovery in her new routine, noting that while she enjoys various recovery methods such as sauna sessions and stretching, the fundamentals of nutrition and sleep remain paramount. She has learned to time her recovery activities effectively, ensuring they complement her training schedule rather than hinder it. Mornings hold a special significance for Wells, who dedicates time to prepare herself mentally before training, while evenings are reserved for winding down with magnesium to aid relaxation.

The mental aspect of training is equally crucial. Wells has developed a mantra for tough moments during workouts: "this is when it counts." This mindset helps her push through the pain and maintain focus during competition. She acknowledges that her muscular physique has sometimes drawn comments, especially in her youth, but she has learned to appreciate her body for its capabilities rather than its appearance.

As she transitions into this new chapter of her athletic career, Wells encourages those intimidated by strength training to embrace their journey. She believes that everyone starts somewhere, and the key is to focus on progress rather than perfection. Her evolving definition of strength, which now includes endurance and functional fitness, reflects her growth as an athlete and individual.

Embrace the Journey of Strength

Wells' journey from a CrossFit champion to a HYROX competitor illustrates the dynamic nature of fitness and the importance of adapting to new challenges. Her experience serves as a reminder that strength is not solely about physical appearance but rather about what the body can achieve. As she continues to redefine her training and recovery, Wells embodies the spirit of resilience and growth that resonates deeply within the fitness community.