Overall Performance
Susannah Innes performed exceptionally well in the 2022 Birmingham HYROX race. With an overall rank of 107 out of 1331 athletes, she placed in the top 8% of the field. In her age group (40-44), she ranked 23rd out of 239 athletes, placing in the top 9%. Her total race time was 01:23:10, with a total running time of 00:41:17, which was 00:55 faster than the average.
Susannah's best running lap was 00:04:39, showing her strength in running. However, her performance in certain segments could be improved, as discussed below.
Segments to Improve
1. Roxzone: Susannah's time in the Roxzone was 00:07:08, which was 01:23 slower than the average. To improve this segment, she should focus on improving her overall fitness and transition time. Incorporating interval training, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), can help improve her overall fitness and endurance. Additionally, practicing quick and efficient transitions between exercises during training can help reduce her time in the Roxzone during races.
2. Sandbag Lunges: Susannah's time in the Sandbag Lunges segment was 00:05:05, which was 00:42 slower than the average. To improve this segment, she should focus on strengthening her leg muscles and improving her lunging technique. Incorporating exercises such as walking lunges, Bulgarian split squats, and step-ups can help improve leg strength and stability. Additionally, practicing proper form and technique during lunges, focusing on maintaining an upright posture and engaging the glutes and hamstrings, can help improve performance in this segment.
3. Wall Balls: Susannah's time in the Wall Balls segment was 00:05:00, which was 00:38 slower than the average. To improve this segment, she should focus on improving her upper body strength and accuracy in throwing the wall ball. Incorporating exercises such as medicine ball cleans, thrusters, and overhead presses can help improve upper body strength and power. Additionally, practicing wall ball shots, focusing on proper form and aiming for accuracy, can help improve performance in this segment.
4. Running 1: Susannah's time in the Running 1 segment was 00:05:09, which was 00:27 slower than the average. To improve her running performance, she should focus on increasing her speed and endurance. Incorporating interval training, such as tempo runs and fartlek runs, can help improve her running pace and endurance. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises that target the muscles used in running, such as squats, lunges, and calf raises, can help improve running performance.
5. Sled Pull: Susannah's time in the Sled Pull segment was 00:05:49, which was 00:22 slower than the average. To improve this segment, she should focus on improving her pulling strength and technique. Incorporating exercises such as rows, pull-ups, and deadlifts can help improve pulling strength. Additionally, practicing proper technique during the sled pull, focusing on engaging the back and core muscles, can help improve performance in this segment.
Strategies
- Pacing: Susannah's overall pacing in the race was good, as evidenced by her strong finish. However, she could benefit from pacing herself more evenly throughout the race, especially in the segments where she lost time. Focusing on maintaining a consistent pace and avoiding going out too fast in the beginning can help her perform better in these segments.
- Transition Efficiency: Improving transition efficiency can significantly impact overall race performance. Susannah should practice quick and smooth transitions between exercises during training to minimize time spent in the Roxzone.
- Mental Preparation: Mental preparation is key in endurance events like HYROX races. Susannah should work on mental strategies such as visualization, positive self-talk, and setting achievable goals to stay focused and motivated throughout the race.
Overall, Susannah Innes had a strong performance in the 2022 Birmingham HYROX race. By focusing on improving the identified segments, implementing the suggested training strategies, and refining race strategies, she can further enhance her performance in future races.