Overall Performance
Aratz Ortiz De Zarate Fernandez had a solid performance in the 2023 Bilbao Hyrox race. He finished with an overall rank of 281 out of 412 athletes, placing him in the top 68% of all competitors. In his age group (35-39), he ranked 63rd out of 91 athletes, putting him in the top 69% of his category. His overall time was 01:48:30, and his total running time was 00:51:27, which was 01:32 slower than the average for his finish time.
Based on the splits analysis, Aratz performed well in certain segments, such as Running 1, Running 2, Sled Pull, Running 5, Running 7, and Wall Balls. He was faster than the average in these segments, showing strength and proficiency. However, there were segments where he lost significant time compared to the average, including Burpees Broad Jump, Farmers Carry, Roxzone, Sled Push, Running 4, Rowing, and Sandbag Lunges.
Segments to Improve
1. Burpees Broad Jump: Aratz completed this segment in 00:08:17, which was 01:10 slower than the average. To improve his performance in this segment, he should focus on increasing his explosive power and agility. Incorporating exercises like plyometric burpees, broad jumps, and lateral agility drills can help him improve his speed and efficiency in this movement. Additionally, he should work on maintaining a steady pace and avoiding unnecessary rest breaks during this segment.
2. Farmers Carry: Aratz took 01:01 longer than the average to complete the Farmers Carry segment. To enhance his performance in this area, he should focus on improving his grip strength and overall endurance. Exercises such as heavy farmer's carries, forearm strength training, and grip exercises like farmer's walks with kettlebells or dumbbells can help him develop the necessary strength and endurance for this segment. Additionally, practicing efficient breathing techniques during the carry can also contribute to improved performance.
3. Roxzone: Aratz spent 00:10:27 in the Roxzone, which was 00:42 slower than the average. To improve his transition time and overall fitness level, he should incorporate interval training and HIIT workouts into his training routine. Interval running, bike sprints, and rowing intervals can help him improve his cardiovascular fitness and increase his speed in transitioning between exercises. Additionally, practicing quick and efficient transitions during training sessions can help him shave off valuable time in the Roxzone during future races.
4. Sled Push: Aratz took 00:28 longer than the average to complete the Sled Push segment. To enhance his performance in this area, he should focus on building strength and power in his lower body. Exercises like squats, deadlifts, and lunges can help him develop the necessary leg and hip strength for a more powerful sled push. Additionally, incorporating explosive movements such as sled pushes with added resistance and plyometric exercises like box jumps can further improve his power output during this segment.
5. Running 4: Aratz completed this running segment in 00:07:02, which was 00:28 slower than the average. To improve his running performance, he should focus on increasing his endurance and speed. Incorporating interval training, tempo runs, and hill sprints into his training routine can help him improve his overall running abilities. Additionally, working on his running form and technique, such as maintaining an efficient stride and proper breathing, can also contribute to improved performance in this segment.
6. Rowing: Aratz took 00:22 longer than the average to complete the Rowing segment. To enhance his rowing performance, he should focus on improving his rowing technique and building cardiovascular endurance. Practicing proper rowing form, such as a strong leg drive and efficient use of the arms and core, can help him maximize his power output. Additionally, incorporating rowing intervals and longer steady-state rowing sessions into his training routine can improve his rowing endurance and speed.
7. Sandbag Lunges: Aratz completed this segment in 00:07:10, which was 00:18 slower than the average. To improve his performance in sandbag lunges, he should focus on increasing his leg and core strength. Incorporating exercises like weighted lunges, squats, and core stability exercises can help him develop the necessary strength and stability for this movement. Additionally, practicing proper form and maintaining a consistent pace throughout the lunges can contribute to improved performance.
Strategies
To improve overall performance, Aratz should consider the following race strategies:
1. Pacing: Aratz should focus on maintaining a consistent pace throughout the race. It is important to avoid starting too fast and burning out early or starting too slow and not being able to catch up later. Finding a sustainable pace that allows him to maintain energy and performance throughout the race will be crucial.
2. Transitions: To improve his time in the Roxzone, Aratz should practice quick and efficient transitions during his training sessions. This includes smoothly moving from one exercise to another, minimizing rest breaks, and being mentally prepared for the next challenge.
3. Strength Training: Aratz should incorporate strength training exercises that target his weaknesses, such as grip strength for the Farmers Carry and lower body strength for the Sled Push and Sandbag Lunges. Consistent strength training will help him build the necessary strength and power to excel in these segments.
4. Endurance Training: To improve his overall running performance, Aratz should focus on increasing his cardiovascular endurance. Incorporating longer distance runs, interval training, and hill sprints into his training routine will help him build the necessary endurance and speed for the running segments.
5. Technique and Form: Aratz should pay close attention to his technique and form in each segment. Practicing proper form during training sessions and focusing on efficient movement patterns will help him perform each exercise more effectively and efficiently.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on the identified areas of improvement, Aratz can enhance his performance in future Hyrox races and continue to progress as a fitness athlete.