Overall Performance
Brett Schmitz performed well in the 2023 Chicago Hyrox race, finishing with an overall rank of 113 out of 768 athletes, placing him in the top 14% of all competitors. In his age group (35-39), he ranked 27th out of 176 athletes, placing him in the top 15%. His overall time was 01:18:28, with a total running time of 00:39:56, which was 01:25 slower than the average for his finish time.
Splits Analysis:
- Running 1: Brett's time of 00:03:45 was 00:26 faster than the average time.
- Ski Erg: Brett's time of 00:04:21 was 00:03 slower than the average time.
- Running 2: Brett's time of 00:04:35 was the same as the average time.
- Sled Push: Brett's time of 00:02:29 was 00:31 faster than the average time.
- Running 3: Brett's time of 00:05:09 was 00:06 slower than the average time.
- Sled Pull: Brett's time of 00:04:32 was 00:13 faster than the average time.
- Running 4: Brett's time of 00:05:04 was 00:04 slower than the average time.
- Burpees Broad Jump: Brett's time of 00:04:47 was 00:27 slower than the average time.
- Running 5: Brett's time of 00:05:20 was 00:13 slower than the average time.
- Rowing: Brett's time of 00:04:39 was 00:05 slower than the average time.
- Running 6: Brett's time of 00:05:16 was 00:16 slower than the average time.
- Farmers Carry: Brett's time of 00:01:48 was 00:15 faster than the average time.
- Running 7: Brett's time of 00:05:19 was 00:20 slower than the average time.
- Sandbag Lunges: Brett's time of 00:04:21 was 00:10 faster than the average time.
- Running 8: Brett's time of 00:05:31 was 00:03 faster than the average time.
- Wall Balls: Brett's time of 00:05:06 was 00:42 faster than the average time.
- Roxzone: Brett's time of 00:06:33 was 00:50 slower than the average time.
Segments to Improve
Based on the split analysis, the following segments were identified as areas for improvement: Run Total, Roxzone, Burpees Broad Jump, Running 7, Running 6, and Running 5.
1. Run Total: Brett's total running time of 00:39:56 was 01:25 slower than the average time. To improve in this segment, it is recommended that Brett focuses on improving his overall fitness and specifically works on his running endurance. Incorporating longer distance runs into his training routine and gradually increasing the intensity and duration of his runs will help improve his running performance.
2. Roxzone: Brett's time spent in the Roxzone was 00:06:33, which was 00:50 slower than the average time. To improve in this segment, Brett should focus on improving his overall fitness and reducing his transition time between exercises. Incorporating interval training and practicing quick transitions between exercises during his training sessions will help improve his overall fitness and reduce the time spent in the Roxzone.
3. Burpees Broad Jump: Brett's time of 00:04:47 in this segment was 00:27 slower than the average time. To improve in this segment, Brett should focus on improving his upper body and core strength, as well as his explosiveness. Incorporating exercises such as push-ups, planks, and box jumps into his training routine will help improve his strength and explosiveness, leading to faster and more efficient burpees broad jumps.
4. Running 7, Running 6, and Running 5: Brett's times in these running segments were all slower than the average time. To improve in these segments, Brett should focus on improving his running endurance and speed. Incorporating interval training, hill sprints, and tempo runs into his training routine will help improve his running performance in these segments.
Strategies
To improve performance during the race, Brett should consider the following strategies:
1. Pacing: It is important for Brett to find a pace that allows him to maintain a consistent effort throughout the race. Starting too fast can lead to burnout later on, while starting too slow may leave him with energy reserves that could have been utilized earlier. Finding a balance and pacing himself accordingly will help optimize his performance.
2. Strength Training: Incorporating regular strength training sessions into his training routine will help improve overall strength and performance in the strength-based segments of the race. Focusing on exercises that target the muscle groups used in the race, such as squats, deadlifts, and lunges, will help improve his strength and power.
3. Transition Practice: Practicing quick and efficient transitions between exercises during training sessions will help reduce the time spent in the Roxzone during the race. Brett should focus on minimizing the time it takes to switch from one exercise to another, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.
4. Mental Preparation: Hyrox races can be physically and mentally demanding. Brett should focus on mental preparation techniques such as visualization, positive self-talk, and goal setting to stay focused and motivated throughout the race. Developing mental toughness will help him push through challenging moments and maintain a strong performance.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on areas of improvement, Brett Schmitz can enhance his performance in future Hyrox races and continue to progress in his fitness journey.