Overall Performance
Axel Löwendahl performed well in the 2023 Stockholm Hyrox race, finishing with an overall rank of 196 out of 430 athletes, which places him in the top 45% of participants. In his age group (35-39), he achieved a rank of 36, putting him in the top 50% of 71 athletes. His overall time was 01:30:11, with a total running time of 00:43:33, which was 25 seconds slower than the average. Axel's best running lap was 00:04:48.
Based on the splits analysis, Axel had varying performances in different segments of the race. He performed slower than average in the Running 1, Ski Erg, Sled Pull, Burpees Broad Jump, and Sandbag Lunges segments. He performed faster than average in the Running 2, Sled Push, Running 3, Running 4, Running 5, Rowing, Running 6, Running 7, and Wall Balls segments.
Segments to Improve
1. Burpees Broad Jump: Axel lost significant time in this segment, finishing 01:11 slower than the average time. To improve performance in this segment, he should focus on improving his burpee efficiency and explosiveness. Incorporating exercises such as burpee variations, plyometric training, and explosive lower body exercises like box jumps can help enhance his power and speed during the burpees. Additionally, practicing proper form and technique for the broad jump can contribute to better performance.
2. Sandbag Lunges: Axel also lost considerable time in the Sandbag Lunges segment, finishing 00:51 slower than the average time. To improve in this segment, he should focus on increasing his leg and core strength. Exercises such as walking lunges, weighted lunges, and Bulgarian split squats can help strengthen the muscles involved in lunges. Additionally, incorporating exercises that improve grip strength, such as farmer's walks or deadlifts, can aid in maintaining stability during the sandbag lunges.
3. Running 1: Axel was 00:34 slower than the average time in this segment. To improve his running performance, he should focus on speed and endurance training. Incorporating interval training, tempo runs, and hill sprints can help improve his running speed. Additionally, working on his running form and technique, such as stride length and arm swing, can contribute to better efficiency and speed.
4. Sled Pull: Axel was 00:30 slower than the average time in the Sled Pull segment. To enhance performance in this area, he should work on improving his pulling strength and technique. Exercises such as deadlifts, rows, and sled pulls can help strengthen the muscles involved in the sled pull. Practicing proper body positioning and utilizing efficient pulling techniques can also contribute to better performance.
5. Running Total: Axel's total running time was 00:25 slower than the average. To improve his overall running performance, he should focus on both speed and endurance training. Incorporating longer distance runs, tempo runs, and interval training can help improve his endurance and speed. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises that target the lower body, such as squats and lunges, can contribute to better running performance.
Strategies
1. Pacing: Axel should aim for a more consistent pace throughout the race. Analyzing the splits, he performed faster than average in some segments and slower than average in others. By maintaining a steady pace, he can avoid burnout and optimize his overall performance.
2. Transitions: Axel should work on improving his transition time in the Roxzone. By enhancing his overall fitness and practicing efficient transitions between exercises, he can minimize the time spent in the Roxzone and improve his overall race time.
3. Strength vs. Running: Considering Axel's total running time was slower than average, he should prioritize training his running abilities. Incorporating more running-specific workouts, such as interval training and tempo runs, can help improve his running speed and endurance.
In conclusion, Axel Löwendahl had a solid performance in the 2023 Stockholm Hyrox race. To enhance his performance, he should focus on improving his efficiency and speed in segments like Burpees Broad Jump, Sandbag Lunges, Running 1, and Sled Pull. By implementing specific training strategies and techniques, such as incorporating plyometric exercises, improving running form, and strengthening the lower body, Axel can improve his overall race performance.