Overall Performance
Pilar Santafé had a strong performance in the 2021 Madrid Hyrox race, finishing with an overall rank of 13 out of 36 athletes, placing her in the top 36% of the field. In her age group (HYROX ELITE, Age Group WWE), she ranked 13th out of 17 athletes, placing her in the top 76%.
Pilar's overall time of 01:20:14 was solid, and her total running time of 00:39:06 was particularly impressive, being 01:37 faster than the average for her finish time. This indicates that her running ability is a strength and she performed well in the running segments of the race.
However, there are areas where Pilar can improve to further enhance her performance. The segments where she lost the most time compared to the average were Wall Balls, Sandbag Lunges, and Farmers Carry. These segments should be the focus of her training and improvement strategies.
Segments to Improve
1. Wall Balls: Pilar's time in the Wall Balls segment was 01:30 slower than the average. To improve her performance in this segment, she should focus on building strength and endurance in her legs and upper body. Incorporating exercises such as squats, lunges, and shoulder presses into her training routine will help her develop the necessary strength for wall balls. Additionally, practicing proper form and technique, including a smooth and efficient transition between reps, will also be beneficial.
2. Sandbag Lunges: Pilar's time in the Sandbag Lunges segment was 01:05 slower than the average. To improve her performance in this segment, she should work on strengthening her legs and core. Exercises such as lunges, step-ups, and planks will help develop the necessary stability and strength for sandbag lunges. Additionally, focusing on maintaining a steady and controlled pace during the lunges will help optimize efficiency and minimize time loss.
3. Farmers Carry: Pilar's time in the Farmers Carry segment was 00:44 slower than the average. To improve her performance in this segment, she should focus on improving her grip strength and overall muscular endurance. Exercises such as deadlifts, kettlebell swings, and farmer's walks will help develop the necessary strength and endurance for the farmers carry. Additionally, practicing proper form and maintaining a consistent pace throughout the carry will be beneficial.
Strategies
In order to improve overall performance in future races, Pilar should consider implementing the following strategies:
1. Pacing: Pilar's overall pacing was strong, as indicated by her faster than average total running time. She should continue to focus on maintaining a steady and consistent pace throughout the race, especially in the running segments. This will help optimize her performance and prevent early fatigue.
2. Transition Efficiency: Pilar's roxzone time was 00:03 faster than the average, indicating that her transitions were relatively quick. However, she can further improve her transition times by practicing efficient movement and minimizing rest periods between segments. Incorporating specific training drills that simulate race transitions will help her develop speed and efficiency in these critical moments.
3. Hybrid Training: While Pilar performed well in the running segments, she should also focus on maintaining and improving her strength and power. Incorporating a combination of strength training exercises (such as weightlifting and functional movements) along with running-specific workouts will help her develop a well-rounded fitness profile and enhance her overall performance in the race.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on improving the identified areas, Pilar Santafé can continue to excel in Hyrox races and achieve even better results.