Interview by Matt Mason
In the world of hybrid fitness, few names ring louder than Lauren Weeks—a three-time HYROX World Champion, DEKA Fit World Champion, and a true pioneer of the sport. But beyond the titles, times, and podium finishes, Lauren represents something even greater: the heart and soul of a growing athletic community.
I sat down with Lauren to talk about the evolution of hybrid racing, how she's seen the sport shift over the years, and what it means to stay grounded and give back—even at the top. What followed was a refreshingly honest, deeply insightful conversation with someone who's not just dominating the sport, but helping define its future.
Matt Mason: Lauren, you’ve been called the GOAT of hybrid racing. Three HYROX world titles, a DEKA Fit world title, a constant presence at the top—how do you stay grounded?
Lauren Weeks: I think it’s about knowing that winning isn’t everything. Of course, I want to perform well—but at this point in my career, the impact I leave on others matters just as much. Whether it’s coaching, being a mom, or just encouraging someone after a tough race, I want people to remember me for how I made them feel, not just what I accomplished.
Matt: You’ve raced a ton lately—HYROX Majors, Elite 15 Doubles, North American Open Champs. How are you holding up?
Lauren: I’m run down for sure. My CNS (central nervous system) is shot right now. I could feel it in training—explosive movements like box jumps just weren’t there. I love pushing myself, but I also know when it’s time to rest and recover.
Matt: So what’s next? Do you take a break, or are you going full steam ahead?
Lauren: I’ve got DEKA Fit SoCal coming up soon. It’s close to home, so we’ll make it a family trip—even if we had to cancel the Disney part because it falls on Easter. But after that, it's more about smart training and building toward World Championships. I may race again before Worlds, but we’ll see what makes sense.
Matt: Your daughter Lily’s already doing her first competitive Easter egg hunt. Is she ready for the family’s “Mass Hysteria” tradition?
Lauren (laughs): Oh, she has no idea what she’s in for. She gets a head start because of her age, but once she sees others getting after it, I think she’s going full-on Terminator mode. It’s fun—it’s part of why I love what we’re building. We’re a competitive family, but it’s always with heart.
Matt: Let’s talk training. How has your approach evolved since your early CrossFit days?
Lauren: When I started HYROX, I was still deep into CrossFit. I’d just stack running onto my WODs and call it good. But after I had Lily, my body changed. My strengths shifted, and I had to adapt. Anthony and I restructured everything—more focus on quality running, GPP (general physical preparedness), accessory work, and resilience. It’s not just about crushing a workout—it’s about longevity in the sport.
Matt: You coach some of your own competitors. What’s that dynamic like?
Lauren: It’s rewarding. I know I won’t be at the top forever. My real legacy is going to be how I’ve helped others grow. Coaching others—sometimes women I’ll race against—it doesn’t bother me. I want to raise the bar for the sport, and that means sharing knowledge, not hoarding it.
Matt: You've become a role model for many—especially moms. What has the hybrid community meant to you?
Lauren: It’s everything. But even more than the sport, I think about the people. Everyone's going through something. You never know what that finish line means to someone. Maybe they just beat something in their personal life. If I can take two seconds to look someone in the eye and say, “You crushed it”—that matters.
Matt: You’ve competed in Elite races for years, but you recently ran your first Open HYROX in D.C. How was that?
Lauren: Honestly, I loved it. Being out there with the larger group reminded me why I love this sport. The Open actually suits my abilities better—more sustained output, less brute force sled pushing. I might not have a ceiling there yet. I ran 55:38, and I know I’ve got a 53 in me with more training.
Matt: You also raced against Tia-Clair Toomey in a recent doubles event. That had to be surreal.
Lauren: Totally. I’ve followed Tia for years and always admired her. I never made it to the CrossFit Games myself, so to be on the floor with her—even in a different sport—was just really cool. It was a reminder of how far this space has come and how many worlds are starting to collide in hybrid.
Matt: You've seen this sport grow from its infancy. What’s needed next to make HYROX truly professional?
Lauren: We need better storytelling. Right now, we spotlight the top three athletes and skip the rest. But the depth of talent is incredible. If we took even a few minutes to share the journeys of more athletes, we’d grow faster and connect deeper. Not everyone needs to be flashy—just authentic.
Matt: What do you look for in sponsorships now that you're fully immersed as an athlete and coach?
Lauren: Alignment. I won’t promote something I don’t use or believe in—period. It’s tempting to take every offer, but I want to partner with brands that match my values and support my lifestyle. Mizuno and Nike? Love their shoes. The Feed has been amazing. But I say no more than I say yes, and I’m okay with that.
Matt: Final question—what’s your advice to anyone looking to break into hybrid racing?
Lauren: Start where you are. Be open to learning. Embrace the grind, but don’t forget the joy. And surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you. This sport has space for everyone—whether you’re going for the Elite 15 or your first Open race. Just get out there and try.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Inspired by Lauren’s story? Whether you're eyeing a HYROX race, looking to improve your DEKA Fit time, or just want to become a stronger version of yourself—start today. There’s a whole community ready to support you, and yes, even the GOATs of the sport are rooting for you.
👉 Follow Lauren on Instagram
🎥 Want the Full Story? Watch the Episode!
This written interview just scratches the surface.
🎧 Hear Lauren talk about her mindset, training strategies, motherhood, and what the future of HYROX really looks like.
📺 Watch the full episode of the RMR Training Podcast – available now on YouTube!
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