Virgin Active blog
HYROX Youngstars
Virgin Active is the official training partner of HYROX Youngstars, giving juniors the ultimate fitness competition. At Virgin Active we’re running a five week training programme to get juniors race-ready. Up for giving it a go? Here’s everything you need to know about the event and our pre-race prep.
Key takeaways:
HYROX Youngstars follows a similarformat as adult’s HYROX with modifications based on age
Juniors can prepare for the event in our Virgin Active HYROX Youngstars 5 week training programme
Regular exercise is important for kids to build muscle, increase bone strength and support their mental health
What is HYROX Youngstars?
HYROX Youngstars gives juniors a chance to experience the fitness phenomena that’s taken the world by storm. It’s like sports day – but way cooler, much bigger and with races you’ll actually want to do.
It combines the endurance of running with the strength and coordination of functional training exercises, like the SkiErg, Sled Push, Burpee Broad Jump – and more! It’s very similar to the adult race but with moves adapted based on age group and fitness level.
We’ll have training classes happening weekly in club, during the lead up to the big event in London on 28 - 29 March 2026.
What is the Virgin Active HYROX Youngstars training programme?
We’re here to help your kids have their HYROX hero moment. From 23 February, we’ve got 5 weeks of HYROX Youngstars themed classes to get them race day ready.
To sign up for classes and secure your spot in class, chat with the team at reception at Virgin Active Chiswick Riverside, Northampton Riverside Park or Chelmsford.
Each session will be led by a HYROX instructor, following the official HYROX Youngstars programme with a little Virgin Active flair, all tailored to their age and ability. We have the sled, the Ski Erg and all the kit available that your junior will be using on race day.
Whether your junior is gearing up for their first HYROX race or simply wants to try something new, they can expect high-energy hybrid fitness sessions, expert coaching and plenty of fun as they learn new techniques and discover what they’re capable of.
What are the age-related HYROX Youngstars races?
To help your child get the most out of their training - and to keep up their future fitness - HYROX Youngstars offers age-related races for kids aged 8 - 15. The exercises in all the categories are very similar but there are different weight limits and distances for each age.
How to take part in HYROX Youngstars?
If you have kids aged 10 - 15, they’re invited to compete on 28 + 29 March at London Olympia – even if they’re not a PE class pro.
Step 1: buy your child’s event ticket on the HYROX Youngstars website
Step 2: sign up for 5 weeks of HYROX Youngstars sessions at Virgin Active Chiswick Riverside, Northampton Riverside Park & Chelmsford
What kind of exercise is right for children?
Exercise is just as important for children as it is for adults, particularly in their developmental years. Children aged 5 - 18 should aim for 20 - 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, including running, cycling, swimming or playing sport. In addition, they should also aim for around 3 resistance exercises per week, like tennis, gymnastics and muscle-building moves like sit-ups and push-ups.
It’s essential, not only for their physical health but for their mental health and social skills too. It helps them develop strong bones and promotes healthy growth and development.
Outside of HYROX Youngstars training, our Junior Group Exercise classes and Club V give kids fun ways to move their body and develop the skills they need for life, to fall in love with sport as they get older.
Not yet a member? Find your nearest club and start your membership today.
FAQs
When is HYROX Youngstars?
HYROX Youngstars is coming to London Olympia on 28 - 29 March 2026.
What age groups can participate in HYROX Youngstars?
HYROX Youngstars is open to kids from the age of 8 - 15 and there are set races for each age group.
How do HYROX Youngstars workouts differ by age group?
HYROX Youngstars workouts are set by age group to keep the moves appropriate for your child’s development. The exercises are pretty much the same across the ages, with weight and distance modified.
Is HYROX Youngstars safe for children?
Yes! HYROX Youngstars is designed especially for children so that they can experience HYROX at a safe and appropriate level.
What exercises are included in a HYROX Youngstars race?
HYROX Youngstars includes the SkiErg, Sled Push, Sled Pull/Sled Drag, Burpee Broad Jump/Frogger Jumps, Rowing, Farmers Carry, Lunges and Wall Balls.
How do I prepare my child for HYROX Youngstars?
HYROX Youngstars is open to all children aged 8 - 15 who want to compete, regardless of their fitness. A good way to prepare them for the race day is to sign them up to a Virgin Active HYROX Youngstars class. This 5 week programme is open to 10-15 year olds and will give them everything they need to feel confident competing on the day.
What are the benefits of exercise for children’s health?
Regular exercise is really important for children to improve their fitness, build strong bones and a strong heart, keep their muscles healthy, improve balance and stability, increase concentration, make new friends and reduce stress.
Is strength training safe for children?
Yes, age-appropriate strength training is safe for children, helping them to develop vital bone and muscle strength as well as adding variety to their training.
