Three generations of one Highland family are taking on the same fitness challenge together as Hyrox continues to attract a growing following at Black Isle Leisure Centre in Fortrose.
James Harrison, his daughter Angela Harrison and granddaughter Elizabeth McLennan have become regulars at the centre’s Hyrox sessions since classes began earlier this year, turning the global fitness phenomenon into something of a family affair.
For James, who is approaching his 80th birthday, Hyrox has joined an already impressive weekly routine that includes Body Pump and Cycle Fit, while providing another opportunity to exercise alongside his family.
Angela said:
“Hyrox is 100% for all the family.”
Her daughter Elizabeth, a trainee accountant who also takes part in Body Pump, HIIT and Circuits, said:
“I do Body Pump, HIIT and Circuits so I thought I would try Hyrox to further improve my fitness.
“I really enjoy it, particularly with my Grandad, Mum and Dad too.”
They are not the only family discovering that a little friendly competition can provide extra motivation, with father and son Ian and Jasper Thomas also training together at the centre.
Ian said:
“I was curious more than anything, but I absolutely love it now.
” I’m able to do it with my eldest son Jasper who is 17, even his old dad can kick his backside on some of the stations, which makes it even more enjoyable!”
Hyrox combines running with a series of functional fitness exercises in a structured workout that can be adapted for different abilities, allowing beginners and experienced athletes to take part alongside each other.
Classes launched at the Fortrose facility in February and now take place every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday alongside an open training session, with participants praising both the physical challenge and supportive atmosphere.
Karen Mackay said:
“Encouraged by others, I am so glad I eventually took the plunge to join a Hyrox class.
“Some of the equipment and exercises can seem daunting at first, but the set-up is well organised and designed to give a full-body workout.
“The instructors keep you motivated and there is a great feeling of achievement.
“The benefits to my fitness levels are noticeable.”
Rebecca Daly described the sessions as “amazing, very motivational, high energy and so rewarding”, while Miranda Wylie said taking part had helped both her “physical and mental health.”
Jennifer Bowie added:
“Every session pushes me out of my comfort zone, but that’s why I keep going.
“It’s helped me become stronger, fitter and more resilient.
“The coaches are incredible and care about every single person, no matter what level they are at.”
The popularity of the sessions in Fortrose reflects the growth of Hyrox across High Life Highland, which now delivers more than 30 classes each week with over 1,000 participants and almost 40 trained coaches and instructors.
Senior Operations Manager Allan Robertson said:
“Black Isle Leisure Centre loves being part of the High Life Highland Hyrox family.
“Our dedicated staff are passionate about delivering these classes and the feedback from customers has been exceptionally positive.
“What’s particularly encouraging is hearing how Hyrox is helping people improve not just their physical fitness but also their mental wellbeing.
“Whether you’re completely new to exercise or looking for your next fitness challenge, we’d encourage people to come along and give it a try.”
For the Harrisons, however, perhaps the best advertisement for the classes is considerably simpler, with three generations turning up, training together and proving that approaching 80 need not mean sitting on the sidelines.
Anyone interested in finding out more about Hyrox classes at Black Isle Leisure Centre can speak to a member of staff or visit the High Life Highland website for details of upcoming sessions.
