AD
Are you planning to participate in your first Hyrox event or considering it in the near future?
The popular AIA Hyrox Open Asian Championships is back and scheduled to take place on June 28 and 29 at the Singapore National Stadium. Before diving into the excitement and adrenaline, it's essential to understand what you're getting into and how to train safely to prevent injuries and fully enjoy the experience.
Hyrox is a fitness event that challenges both strength and endurance, featuring eight 1km runs, each followed by a functional fitness station. Think sled pushes, burpee broad jumps, wall balls, and more, all in succession.

While being a fitness enthusiast is beneficial, it's not a requirement to participate in Hyrox. There are different categories that make it accessible and enjoyable for various fitness levels. You just need to show up and give it your best effort.
To complete Hyrox safely and have a fulfilling experience, having a base level of strength and cardio is crucial. It's essential to build a foundation in strength training and conditioning to prevent injuries during the 8km race.
Hyrox Training Dos and Don'ts
Warming up is a must-do before the race to ensure your body is prepared for the high-intensity event. Training should include a structured routine of strength and cardio exercises at least three to four times a week.

Emphasizing pacing yourself during the race is key to maintaining energy levels throughout. Strategy, pacing, and consistency play vital roles in a successful Hyrox experience.
Familiarize yourself with the stations, movement standards, and rules.
Train for both running and functional movements.
Include rest days for recovery and mobility.
Focus on technique and efficiency.
Test your pacing and transitions.
Begin training early.
Train at a community gym for motivation.
Invest in appropriate footwear.
Avoid training on individual stations, leaving training to the last minute, neglecting nutrition and hydration, and comparing yourself with others on social media.
Technique is crucial during training to avoid injuries, while monitoring pace and intensity is essential to prevent burnout. Nutrition-wise, focus on consuming carbohydrates for energy, maintaining balanced meals, and hydrating adequately.
Diet and Nutrition for Hyrox
Prioritize proper nutrition leading up to and during the event, focusing on carbohydrates as the body's primary fuel source. Carbohydrate loading can help delay fatigue and support sustained effort throughout the race.

Avoid overeating during carbohydrate loading, trying new supplements or diets, and cutting out carbohydrates just before the event. Hydrate regularly and consider snacks and hydration for longer training sessions.
Lastly, remember to enjoy the experience and celebrate your effort, regardless of your finishing time. Hyrox is not just a race but a celebration of your dedication and hard work.
carol.ong@asiaone.com
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
JOHANNESBURG — In a high-tech Johannesburg laboratory, Nozipho Mlotshwa and her team were on the verge of a potential breakthrough in the decades-long quest for an HIV vaccine. Their latest formulation had just triggered promising immune responses in animal trials when an abrupt order from Washington froze all progress.
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
In a decisive move to stay ahead of the evolving pandemic, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel members voted unanimously on Thursday (May 22) to recommend next-generation COVID-19 vaccines specifically designed to combat emerging JN.1 variant strains for the 2026-2026 immunization campaign.
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
The journey of motherhood is often painted with images of radiant joy and unconditional love. Yet for many women, this transformative chapter comes with unexpected emotional turbulence that goes far deeper than temporary "baby blues."
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Fasting from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan can test one's endurance, making it crucial to maintain energy levels while resisting the temptation of overeating. As the holy month transitions into the joyous celebrations of Hari Raya Puasa (Aidilfitri), balancing festive feasts with mindful eating becomes essential for well-being.
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
A groundbreaking California study presented at a major medical conference on May 31 suggests that wildfire smoke could significantly increase mortality risks for lung cancer patients, with non-smokers being particularly vulnerable. However, certain cancer treatments might help counteract these effects.
Rise of Unqualified Online "Counsellors" Sparks Mental Health Concerns in Singapore
Mental health professionals in Singapore are raising alarms over the growing trend of untrained individuals offering counselling services on digital platforms. Experts warn this phenomenon poses serious risks, including potential misdiagnosis, harmful advice, and violations of client confidentiality.
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Chinese researchers have identified a bat coronavirus that shares a key trait with the virus behind Covid-19—it uses the same ACE2 receptor to invade human cells. While this raises concerns about potential future transmission, experts caution against alarm, as the virus currently shows limited ability to infect humans.
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore is facing a growing health challenge – obesity rates are climbing at an alarming rate, with serious implications for public health.
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
GENEVA - After three years of intense negotiations, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) are on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking treaty to strengthen global pandemic preparedness, according to sources close to the talks. The discussions, which continued through Friday night into Saturday morning (April 12), have been temporarily paused until Tuesday as officials work to resolve remaining sticking points.
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
SINGAPORE — In a startling revelation about the state of our planet's air, just seven countries worldwide met the World Health Organisation's (WHO) stringent air quality benchmarks last year. This alarming data comes as environmental researchers sound the alarm about worsening pollution tracking capabilities following the shutdown of crucial US-led global monitoring initiatives.
Fluoride in Singapore: Should You Be Concerned About Its Effects?
A recent US study published in January has reignited debates about fluoride usage, particularly in water, after suggesting a possible link between higher fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores in children. The findings, featured in the Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics, have drawn criticism from some scientists who question the study's methodology while reaffirming fluoride's well-documented dental benefits.
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
GENEVA — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has uncovered startling new data revealing a dangerous gap in public knowledge across Europe regarding alcohol's direct connection to cancer. In a bold move, the health authority is urging governments to implement mandatory tobacco-style warning labels on alcoholic beverages—particularly in the world’s heaviest-drinking region.
