In just 18 months, Kat Fahsbender has gone from a relative unknown to one of the most exciting up-and-coming athletes in hybrid racing. From her early days as a casual runner to competing against some of the best in the world, Fahsbender's journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Her rapid rise in both HYROX and DEKA events proves she’s a force to be reckoned with.

We sat down with Kat to talk about her background, her transition into hybrid racing, and where she sees herself in the sport’s future.

"I Just Wanted to Push Myself"

Matt Mason: Kat, you came onto the scene fast. You’re only 18 months into hybrid racing, but you’ve already made a huge impact. What made you take on this challenge?

Kat Fahsbender: Honestly, I kind of stumbled into it. I’ve always been a runner, but I didn’t compete seriously in high school or college. I ran for fun, stayed in shape, but never thought I’d be racing at this level. Then I got introduced to hybrid racing through a gym I worked at. A coach asked me to partner up for a DEKA doubles event, and that was it. I was hooked.

Matt Mason: So you started with DEKA before HYROX?

Kat Fahsbender: Yeah, my first hybrid race was a DEKA doubles event in Philly. I didn’t really know what to expect, but I loved it. Then my boyfriend, Mike, suggested we try a HYROX doubles. That was Dallas 2023, and from there, we just dove in.

Matt Mason: You and Mike ran a 59-minute mixed doubles in only your second HYROX race. That’s a big deal. At what point did you decide to go solo?

Kat Fahsbender: After competing in Nice last year. I started realizing that my running was one of my biggest strengths, and I wanted to see what I could do on my own. I also did a solo HYROX simulation and handled the pro weights well, so I thought, ‘Okay, I can do this.’ This season, Mike and I both committed to going solo.

The Jump from DEKA to HYROX

Matt Mason: You’ve had success in both DEKA and HYROX, but they’re very different races. How did you balance training for both?

Kat Fahsbender: My main focus has always been HYROX, and I trust that training for it will carry over into DEKA. It doesn’t work the other way around. After Chicago, I took a short break and did a few weeks of DEKA-specific training for Worlds, but for the most part, I keep my training centered on HYROX.

Matt Mason: Speaking of Chicago, your first HYROX solo race was a 66-minute effort. How did that feel?

Kat Fahsbender: It was tough. I learned a lot. I came out way too hot, and by the time I hit the sled pull, I was struggling. By the wall balls, I had nothing left. I also wasn’t fueling properly at all. That race taught me that I had to change my pacing and nutrition strategy.

Matt Mason: You bounced back with a 64-minute finish in Vegas just a few months later. What changed?

Kat Fahsbender: Everything. I started fueling properly—more calories daily, eating before workouts. I also added a mini strength block and put on some muscle. I focused on pacing smarter, and it all came together in Vegas.

"I Love the Challenge of HYROX"

Matt Mason: Between DEKA and HYROX, you seem more drawn to HYROX. What is it about the sport that excites you?

Kat Fahsbender: It’s so hard. HYROX is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but that’s why I love it. The training is a grind, but it’s made me a better athlete and a stronger person. It’s more than just fitness—it’s about resilience.

Matt Mason: You’ve already put yourself on the map. Are you aiming for the HYROX Elite 15 next season?

Kat Fahsbender: That’s the goal. This season, I wanted to gain experience racing solo, but next year, I’m coming for that Elite 15 spot.

What’s Next for Fassbender?

Matt Mason: You’re competing in DC next, then Miami for doubles. Any other big plans for this season?

Kat Fahsbender: Definitely DEKA Fit PA. I’d also love to try a trail race and maybe even an OCR event. I want to keep challenging myself.

Matt Mason: Any advice for new athletes getting into hybrid racing?

Kat Fahsbender: Pain doesn’t last forever. It’ll pass, and you’ll be glad you pushed through. This sport is amazing, and the community is even better. Just dive in.

Kat Fahsbender is just getting started, and if her rapid rise is any indication, she’s going to be a serious contender in hybrid racing for years to come.

🔥 Follow Kat’s Journey & Stay Connected! 🔥

Want to see how Kat continues to dominate hybrid racing? Follow her on Instagram for training insights, race updates, and behind-the-scenes content.

📲 Follow Kat on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fahsyfit/

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