Overall Performance
Kirthihaa Veluppillai performed well in the 2023 Sydney HYROX race, finishing with an overall rank of 104 out of 342 athletes, placing her in the top 30% of competitors. In her age group (U24), she ranked 10th out of 17 athletes, placing her in the top 58%. Her overall time was 02:22:22, with a total running time of 01:25:13, which was 22:22 slower than the average. Her best running lap was 00:05:35.
Based on the split analysis, Kirthihaa performed exceptionally well in the Running 1 and Ski Erg segments, where she was faster than the average by 01:06 and 00:13, respectively. She also had a strong performance in the Sled Push and Sled Pull segments, where she was faster than the average by 00:29 and 01:24, respectively. Additionally, she excelled in the Burpees Broad Jump and Rowing segments, where she was faster than the average by 04:43 and 00:59, respectively. However, she struggled in several running segments, including Running 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, where she was slower than the average by varying times.
Segments to Improve
1. Running 2: Kirthihaa was 01:42 slower than the average in this segment. To improve her performance, she should focus on increasing her running speed and endurance. Incorporating interval training, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or fartlek runs, can help improve her running speed. Additionally, including longer distance runs in her training routine will improve her endurance.
2. Running 3, 4, and 5: Kirthihaa was slower than the average by 02:34, 02:30, and 02:19, respectively, in these running segments. To address this, she should work on building her muscular endurance and stamina. Incorporating strength training exercises, such as squats, lunges, and deadlifts, will help improve her lower body strength and endurance. Additionally, implementing plyometric exercises, like box jumps and jump squats, can enhance her explosive power and overall running performance.
3. Running 6 and 7: Kirthihaa was slower than the average by 02:44 and 02:08, respectively, in these running segments. To improve her performance, she should focus on improving her aerobic capacity. Implementing longer distance runs at a moderate pace will help increase her cardiovascular endurance. Additionally, incorporating hill sprints or incline treadmill workouts will enhance her leg strength and running efficiency.
Strategies
1. Pacing: Kirthihaa should work on maintaining a consistent and sustainable pace throughout the race. Starting too fast can lead to early fatigue and hinder performance in later segments. Implementing pacing strategies, such as negative splits or even pacing, will help her maintain a steady speed and energy level throughout the race.
2. Transition Time: Kirthihaa should aim to minimize her transition time between segments, as indicated by the Roxzone time. Improving her overall fitness and specifically targeting her transition speed through interval training and practicing quick transitions during training sessions will help reduce the time spent in the Roxzone.
3. Focus on Strength Training: Since Kirthihaa performed well in the strength-based segments, she should continue to emphasize strength training in her routine. This will help maintain and further improve her performance in these areas.
4. Running Technique: Kirthihaa should work on optimizing her running form to enhance efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Incorporating drills and exercises to improve running posture, cadence, and stride length will help maximize her running performance.
5. Mental Preparation: Kirthihaa should develop mental strategies to stay focused and motivated throughout the race. Practicing visualization techniques, positive self-talk, and mental toughness exercises will help her maintain a strong mindset and push through challenging moments during the race.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on the identified areas of improvement, Kirthihaa Veluppillai can enhance her performance in future HYROX races and continue to progress in her athletic journey.