SkiErg, Assault Bike, rowing machine: which cardio to train on
Three machines, three different ways of working cardio. Which one actually replicates the Hyrox stations, and which makes sense for training at home.
The three machines look similar on paper, but they engage the body in completely different ways. For a Hyrox athlete, this isn't just a matter of preference: two of the three are the exact equipment used on race day.
SkiErg: upper body, standing
Standing position, a downward pulling motion similar to a ski pole push. Mainly engages the lats, triceps, chest and core, with lighter leg involvement than the rowing machine. It's the first station of the Hyrox race, over 1,000 metres: training on it isn't optional, it's a direct rehearsal of the event.
Rowing machine: the most complete machine
Seated, leg drive followed by a pull with the body and arms: over 80 percent of the body's muscles are engaged on every stroke. It's the sixth station of the race, also over 1,000 metres, and the Concept2 RowErg is the official model used in competition. For a single machine to choose for home training, the rowing machine covers the widest range.
Assault Bike: off the Hyrox course, present elsewhere
The Assault Bike isn't part of any of the eight Hyrox stations. It remains a relevant cross-training tool for building general cardio capacity, with the advantage of engaging arms and legs together at an adjustable effort. It is, however, part of the DEKA format (25 calories on the assault bike), which makes it a logical choice for anyone wanting to cover both hybrid training disciplines.
Which one to buy first for home
In order of priority for a Hyrox athlete: the rowing machine first (covers a race station and the widest range of muscle groups), the SkiErg second (specific to the first station, complementary to the rower on the upper body), the Assault Bike last, mainly for someone wanting to vary their cardio or also preparing for DEKA.
Before investing in a machine costing several hundred euros, compare it with the price of a drop-in membership at an equipped box: a few months of sessions often work out cheaper, with the added benefit of access to the rest of the equipment (sled, wall balls, kettlebells) that no single machine replaces.
Where to find these machines in France
Concept2 remains the official Hyrox partner for the rowing machine and the SkiErg, so this is the exact equipment found on race day. The cross-training equipment distributors mentioned in the general equipment guide, notably Fit & Rack and Crossliftor, also list Assault Bikes and used or refurbished ergometers.
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