053: From Rural Roots to the Elite 15: HYROX Athlete Tom Rodgers on Chasing Greatness

What does it take to go from first-time HYROX competitor to qualifying for the Elite 15, all in under a year?

In this episode, we sit down with Tom Rodgers, one of the fastest-rising names in Australian HYROX. Since entering the sport in 2023, Tom has made waves with multiple podium finishes across solo, doubles, and team relay events. But it was his 56:05 solo finish, one of the fastest in HYROX history - that truly cemented him as a force to watch.

Whether you’re a HYROX athlete, a hybrid competitor, or a runner stepping into functional fitness, this conversation will challenge how you think about racing, training, and leveling up under pressure.

We’re digging into what makes Tom tick, from his unique training style and rural lifestyle, to the mindset shifts that helped him rise so fast.

🔍 What we explore in this episode:

• How Tom got into HYROX and what early races taught him

• The “conjugate training” method and how it fuels his hybrid performance

• His thoughts mid-race during that historic 56:05 finish

• Competing across solo, doubles, and team formats, what changes?

• What it’s like training alongside elite partner and mentor Chris Woolley

• Balancing rural living, real life, and high-level competition

• A full breakdown of Tom’s current training week

• Recovery, consistency, and staying sharp when motivation dips

• What’s next: goals for the Elite 15 in Barcelona and beyond

This episode isn’t just about one athlete’s success, it’s about the systems, choices, and mental edge that drive performance at the highest level.

🎯 If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to break through in HYROX… this is where you start.👉 Check out all our socials through this link: ⁠TrainHybrd