Overall Performance
Brianne Zanardelli had a solid performance in the 2023 Los Angeles HYROX race. She finished with an overall rank of 224, placing her in the top 35% of 627 athletes. In her age group (40-44), she ranked 42nd, placing her in the top 36% of 114 athletes. Her overall time of 03:21:23 was respectable, and she showed strength in the running segments, finishing 22:01 faster than the average total running time.
Segments to Improve
1. Sandbag Lunges: Brianne lost significant time in this segment, finishing 23:10 slower than the average time. To improve her performance in this area, she should focus on strengthening her leg muscles, particularly the quads and glutes. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and step-ups with added resistance can help build the necessary strength. Additionally, practicing proper form during lunges, ensuring that the knees stay aligned with the toes and the back remains straight, will aid in efficient movement.
2. Burpees Broad Jump: Brianne was 4:34 slower than the average time in this segment. To improve her performance, she should work on both cardiovascular endurance and explosive power. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts that incorporate burpees and broad jumps will help improve her endurance and explosiveness. Focusing on plyometric exercises, such as box jumps and medicine ball slams, will also aid in developing power and explosiveness.
3. Wall Balls: Brianne finished 1:06 slower than the average time in this segment. To enhance her performance, she should focus on improving her lower body strength and core stability. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and deadlifts will help strengthen her legs and hips. Additionally, incorporating exercises that target the core, such as planks and Russian twists, will improve stability and control during wall balls.
4. Farmers Carry: Brianne was 46 seconds slower than the average time in this segment. To improve her performance, she should focus on grip strength and overall upper body strength. Incorporating exercises such as farmer's carries with progressively heavier weights will help strengthen her grip. Additionally, exercises that target the back and shoulders, such as rows and overhead presses, will improve overall upper body strength.
Strategies
- Pacing: Brianne should focus on maintaining a consistent pace throughout the race. While she showed strength in the running segments, it's important to avoid going too fast in the beginning and burning out later. Implementing a pacing strategy, such as starting at a slightly slower pace and gradually increasing speed, will help ensure she has enough energy for the later segments.
- Transitions: Brianne should aim to minimize time spent in the Roxzone (transition zones) to improve her overall race time. This can be achieved by practicing efficient transitions during training. Setting up mock transition zones and timing herself during practice sessions will help identify areas where she can improve her transition speed.
- Hybrid Training: Given Brianne's strength in the running segments and areas of improvement in strength-based segments, she should focus on incorporating more strength-based training into her routine. This will help her become a more well-rounded athlete and improve her performance in segments such as sandbag lunges, burpees broad jump, and wall balls. Implementing a balanced training plan that includes both running and strength training will help her excel in future races.
It's important for Brianne to consult with a qualified coach or trainer to tailor these recommendations to her specific needs and goals. Regular assessments and progress tracking will also be beneficial in monitoring improvements and adjusting the training plan as necessary.