F45 is entering the competitive fitness space with the launch of Peak500, a hybrid fitness competition developed in partnership with Red Bull.

The format introduces a standardised race-style event built around functional training, combining elements of strength, conditioning, and endurance into a repeatable competition structure.

Participants complete a series of timed workout stations designed to test multiple aspects of fitness within a single event.

The move places F45 into a category that has gained traction through formats like Hyrox, where fitness is structured as a scalable, mass-participation competition.

Hybrid fitness competition formats in functional training

Hybrid fitness competitions combine different physical modalities—typically strength, endurance, and functional movement—into a single standardised event.

These formats are designed to be:

• repeatable across locations
• measurable through time or scoring systems
• accessible to a broad range of participants

Unlike traditional sports, hybrid competitions do not rely on a single skill or discipline.

Instead, they test general physical preparedness across multiple domains.

F45’s Peak500 follows this structure, translating its class-based training model into a competitive format.

What is a hybrid fitness competition?

A hybrid fitness competition is a standardised event that combines multiple training modalities—such as running, strength exercises, and functional movements—into a single timed or scored format, allowing participants to measure performance across different aspects of fitness in a repeatable, scalable environment.

Why boutique fitness is moving toward competition formats

Boutique fitness brands have historically focused on class-based experiences.

These sessions are:

• instructor-led
• time-bound
• location-specific

However, this model has limitations in terms of scalability and engagement outside the studio.

Competition formats introduce several new dynamics:

• standardisation — workouts can be replicated globally
• progression — participants can track performance over time
• community — events create shared experiences beyond regular classes
• content — competitions generate media and social engagement

For operators, this creates a layer of engagement that extends beyond the studio floor.

Sportification of fitness and event-driven business models

The launch of Peak500 reflects a broader trend: the sportification of fitness.

This involves turning training into structured, competitive events with defined rules, formats, and performance metrics.

Several characteristics define this shift:

• fitness becomes measurable and comparable
• events are designed for both participation and spectatorship
• brands create proprietary competition formats
• performance data becomes central to the experience

This mirrors developments seen in endurance sports and mass-participation events such as marathons.

However, hybrid fitness competitions are designed to be more accessible, requiring less specialised training.

Competitive dynamics between F45, Hyrox and fitness racing formats

F45’s entry places it in direct competition with existing hybrid formats.

Hyrox has established a standardised global race format built around fixed workout stations and running intervals.

F45’s approach differs in one key respect: it originates from a franchise-based training system with an existing global footprint.

This provides:

• immediate access to a large participant base
• built-in distribution through studios
• alignment between training and competition formats

The introduction of Peak500 suggests that boutique fitness brands are seeking to control both training environments and competitive endpoints.

How hybrid competitions extend the fitness value chain

Hybrid competitions extend the traditional fitness value chain beyond training sessions.

They introduce additional layers:

• events — large-scale competitions
• media — content creation and distribution
• sponsorship — brand partnerships (e.g. Red Bull)
• performance tracking — standardised metrics

This creates new revenue opportunities and engagement loops.

Participants train within a system and then compete within the same ecosystem.

This model increases retention and brand loyalty.

Future implications for hybrid fitness and performance ecosystems

Over the next 5–10 years, hybrid fitness competitions are likely to become a core component of the fitness industry.

Several developments are likely.

Standardised global formats

Competition structures will become more consistent, enabling global rankings and leaderboards.

Integration with digital platforms

Performance data from events may feed into apps and training systems, creating continuous feedback loops.

Expansion of spectator formats

Events may increasingly be designed for broadcast and content distribution.

Convergence of fitness and sport

The boundary between recreational training and competitive sport will continue to blur. F45’s launch of Peak500 shows that boutique fitness brands are no longer focused solely on delivering workouts. They are building systems that extend from training into competition, media, and community.