Paddy Pimblett Slams Hyrox as ‘Stupid’—You Won't Believe What He Revealed About His Grueling Training!

As Paddy Pimblett gears up for his interim title fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, the mixed martial arts fighter shared his thoughts on a popular fitness trend that has captured the spotlight in recent years. During an appearance on the **Men’s Health: Built For Life** podcast, Pimblett did not mince words when discussing **Hyrox**, a fitness competition combining running and functional exercises. “Yeah, that stupid Hyrox sh*t,” he laughed, sparking immediate laughter among the hosts, Ben Shephard and Andrew Tracey, who noted the irony given the podcast's pro-Hyrox stance.

Pimblett elaborated on his disdain, stating, “It’s just asking for injuries.” This comment prompted Shephard and Tracey to point out the irony of a professional fighter, who gets punched in the face for a living, critiquing injury risks. Pimblett defended his viewpoint by expressing concern over the blend of high-intensity movements involved in Hyrox, akin to criticisms historically directed at **CrossFit**. He remarked, “They’re doing so many different things at once. It wrecks your shoulders and your knees.”

Despite the playful banter, the hosts countered that many people find structure and motivation through Hyrox, which can help them train more effectively. Pimblett, with a wry smile, shrugged off their arguments, emphasizing his preference for a consistent routine. “Everything’s basically the same,” he explained regarding his training regimen, which consists of five days of training and two sparring sessions per week, even outside of fight camp. “I might run more in camp,” he added, noting he occasionally incorporates extra boxing while avoiding excessive wear and tear on his body.

Interestingly, a turning point in Pimblett's career came in 2020 when he adopted a more serious approach to **strength training**. Despite having fought since his teenage years, he had never lifted weights consistently until then. He attributes his improved physique and durability to this shift, highlighting the importance of strength training in a fighter's regimen.

Pimblett’s philosophy centers around treating mixed martial arts as an integrated discipline. “We do MMA,” he states, indicating that he trains striking, grappling, and wrestling together to mirror the reality of fighting. This holistic approach helps him prepare more effectively for bouts, contrasting sharply with the fragmented training methodologies he criticizes.

When pressed about current fitness trends, Pimblett maintained his low opinion of them, quipping, “Just go for a run. None of that stupid sh*t.” The playful tone continued as the hosts attempted to persuade him that participating in a Hyrox event could complement his training goals. His response remained consistent: “One of the lads in my gym does it. I just tell him, ‘Lad, grow up.’”

While Pimblett's skepticism toward trends like Hyrox is clear, it's essential to consider that injury rates in functional fitness often fall below those in combat sports training. Both training styles offer effective paths to enhancing strength, endurance, and resilience, though it might be wise to tread lightly in discussing these benefits with Pimblett.

This candid exchange provides a glimpse into the mindset of a dedicated athlete preparing for a high-stakes fight. As fans eagerly anticipate Pimblett's bout against Gaethje, his insights into training philosophies and fitness trends serve as a reminder that every fighter has a unique approach to their craft. To hear the full conversation, you can tune into **Men’s Health: Built For Life**, available wherever you get your podcasts, with new episodes releasing every Thursday.