Biogen Face of Fitness finalist Enolicia Strever has embraced the challenge of HYROX, the fast-growing fitness race that tests strength, endurance, power and mental grit.
After discovering the sport through her CrossFit community, she adapted her training, refined her race-day nutrition and found a new proving ground that pushes her to show up stronger in every area of life.
“One of my coaches said the competition was tailor-made for me and perfectly aligned with what I enjoy. It felt like the perfect challenge to test both my strength and endurance, and once I learned more about it, I was all in.”
After adapting her training, Enolicia competed at her first HYROX event in March 2025. “I surprised myself with how well I performed, and that experience has only fuelled my excitement to return.”
Motivated by her family, Enolicia continues to push for greater achievements. “Everything I do – every early morning, every rep, every drop of sweat – is rooted in the commitment to show up as the strongest version of myself for them.”
This is why HYROX is more than just a race for her; it’s her proving ground.
“HYROX demands the full spectrum of athleticism: power, grit, stamina, and strategy. It is a catalyst. It fuels the mindset I need to lead, to provide, and to thrive. It pushes me physically, mentally, and emotionally, sharpening the discipline I bring into every area of my life; at home, at work, and beyond.”
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HYROX her way
Her training is intentionally designed to develop both strength and endurance in balance, without compromising either.
“Each week, I split my training between focused CrossFit strength sessions to build raw power and functional capacity, and dedicated HYROX simulations to condition my body and sharpen my race-day performance.”
It’s not just about training hard, though; it’s about training smart. “Every session has a purpose, and every movement brings me one step closer to becoming stronger, faster, and more prepared for whatever the race throws at me.”
Recovery is non-negotiable for Enolicia, with three rest and recovery days each week. She incorporates yoga, mobility work, and active recovery to stay resilient, prevent injury, and maintain peak performance over time.
“Sundays are a perfect blend of recovery and connection. I dedicate the day to yoga, which helps me stretch, release tension, and focus my mind.”
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Fuelled to compete
Another element in her approach she never compromises on is fuelling her body consistently.
“Skipping meals isn’t an option when you’re training hard and juggling life’s demands. However, nutrition is about consistency, not perfection, for me. It’s about giving my body what it needs to show up strong, day in and day out.”
Her diet includes balanced, nourishing meals that support both her performance and recovery.
“Alongside whole foods, my supplement routine is built around supporting performance, recovery, and overall endurance.”
Enolicia;s supplements stack include:
- Protein, creatine, and L-glutamine for muscle recovery,
- Electrolytes to stay hydrated and balanced, especially during intense sessions or ahead of competitions.
“The night before a race, I prioritise a high-carb dinner and increase my electrolyte intake to ensure I’m fully loaded and hydrated. On race day, I continue with electrolyte drinks and keep electrolyte sachets on me throughout the event—they’ve been a game-changer in preventing cramps and keeping me moving at full capacity.”
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Finding balance
Enolicia’s preparation for HYROX requires that she balances her training with a demanding career and family life.
“It isn’t easy, but that’s exactly why I do it. I believe in living by example: showing my kids that resilience, consistency, and hard work matter. My goal isn’t just to compete, it’s to grow stronger than I was yesterday, to stretch the limits of my potential, and to carry that strength into every role I play: parent, partner, professional, and athlete.”
This philosophy also means making her kids part of her fitness journey, which includes training together regularly, and in different ways.
“My kids have become my greatest motivators. Their energy, determination, and natural drive often challenge me to dig deeper, go further, and stay accountable.”
Enolicia balances her training with some playful, friendly competition, like hockey matches and touch rugby with her boys.
“These activities are fun and light-hearted, but they also keep me moving and active in a way that feels completely different from my regular training.”
Beyond the physical benefits, training together has created something truly special for Enolicia – a deeper connection rooted in shared effort, laughter, and growth.
“These activities are a chance to bond with my family, play, and stay loose, all while maintaining a sense of joy and community. It’s in those moments – whether we’re running, racing, or just playing outside – that our bond is strengthened. We learn from each other, push each other, and celebrate every small victory side by side.”
Involving her kids in her journey has not only made Enolicia a better athlete, it’s made her a more present, inspired, and connected parent.
“We’re building a lifestyle, not just for now, but for the future—and that’s the most powerful kind of training there is.”
Enolicia explains that balancing the roles of mother, wife, and corporate professional requires intention, discipline, and relentless planning.
“For me, structure isn’t restrictive; it’s empowering. With so many moving parts, from school drop-offs and meetings to training sessions and family time, planning ahead is essential. It’s how I protect my energy, stay focused, and prevent burnout before it starts.”
Most days run with military precision – every hour has a purpose, from the moment she wakes to lights out. “It may sound intense, but this rhythm creates stability for my family and space for me to pursue my goals without compromise.”
The HYROX experience
Having experienced everything HYROX has to offer, Enolicia says wall balls and burpee broad jumps are her favourite challenges.
“Both stations push me to dig deep and challenge my endurance, but there’s something incredibly satisfying about the rhythm and intensity of each movement. They really make me feel in the zone!”
Sandbag lunges are her least favourite. “My knees definitely don’t love hitting the ground! It’s like they have a personal vendetta against that station, but hey, I power through.”
Based on her experience, Enolicia also suggests starting with the Doubles division if you can.
“Doing a HYROX race with a partner is an excellent way to ease into the intensity of the event. You’ll have someone by your side to keep you motivated, push you through the tough moments, and celebrate the victories with you. It’s a great way to experience the race and build mental toughness without feeling completely alone in the process.”
Beyond that, she says preparation is everything. “This race demands both physical and mental strength, so don’t underestimate the importance of your training leading up to the event.
“Make sure you’re incorporating conditioning work, HYROX-specific simulations, and tapering your training as the event approaches. And don’t forget to work on your mindset. The stronger your mental game, the better you’ll perform. Stay focused, stay disciplined, and enjoy the journey. You’ve got this!”
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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