Overall Performance
Shelly Hillier had a commendable performance in the 2023 London Hyrox race. She achieved an overall rank of 275 out of 1930 athletes, placing her in the top 14% of participants. In her age group (55-59), Shelly secured the 4th position out of 65 athletes, putting her in the top 6%. Her overall time was 01:27:26, and her total running time was 00:44:15, which was 00:39 slower than the average.
Shelly's best running lap was completed in 00:05:06, indicating that she has the ability to perform well in running segments. However, her performance in certain segments, such as the Sled Push, Sled Pull, Running 1, Burpees Broad Jump, and Rowing, contributed to the time lost during the race.
Segments to Improve
1. Sled Push: Shelly completed the Sled Push segment in 00:03:28, which was 00:27 slower than the average time. To improve her performance in this segment, she can focus on increasing her lower body strength and power. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and deadlifts can help improve her pushing strength. Additionally, practicing explosive movements like sled pushes or tire flips can enhance her power output.
2. Sled Pull: Shelly took 00:06:08 to complete the Sled Pull segment, which was 00:17 slower than the average time. To improve her performance in this segment, she can work on her upper body and grip strength. Exercises like pull-ups, rows, and farmer's carries can help enhance her pulling strength. Grip strength can be improved through exercises such as dead hangs, farmer's carries, and using grip strengtheners.
3. Running 1: Shelly completed Running 1 in 00:05:06, which was 00:16 slower than the average time. To improve her running performance, she can focus on increasing her speed and endurance. Interval training, such as sprint intervals, can help improve her speed. Long-distance runs or tempo runs can enhance her endurance. Incorporating hill sprints or incline treadmill runs can also help improve her running strength.
4. Burpees Broad Jump: Shelly completed the Burpees Broad Jump segment in 00:05:45, which was 00:16 slower than the average time. To improve her performance in this segment, she can work on her explosive power and agility. Plyometric exercises such as jump squats, box jumps, and burpees can help improve her explosiveness. Incorporating agility ladder drills or cone drills can enhance her agility and coordination.
5. Rowing: Shelly took 00:05:29 to complete the Rowing segment, which was 00:14 slower than the average time. To improve her rowing performance, she can focus on improving her technique and power output. Practicing proper rowing form, including the catch, drive, and finish, can help maximize her power output. Additionally, incorporating strength exercises such as bent-over rows and lat pulldowns can improve her rowing strength.
Strategies
To improve her overall performance in the Hyrox race, Shelly can implement the following strategies:
1. Pacing: Shelly should focus on maintaining a consistent pace throughout the race. It is important to avoid starting too fast and burning out early. By pacing herself effectively, she can maintain energy levels and perform better in each segment.
2. Transitions: Shelly should aim to minimize the time spent in the roxzone, as it indicates rest or slower transition time. Improving overall fitness and working on faster transitions can help reduce the time spent in the roxzone.
3. Strength vs. Running: Shelly can assess her profile based on the total running time. If her total running time is faster than average, she has a more runner profile and should focus on incorporating strength training to improve her overall fitness. Conversely, if her total running time is slower than average, she should prioritize running training to enhance her running performance.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on the identified areas of improvement, Shelly Hillier can further enhance her performance in future Hyrox races.