Forum: Make mass fitness events easier to access

I have noticed a growing enthusiasm among Singaporeans for structured fitness challenges, particularly in mass participation events like Hyrox Singapore and the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM).

Thousands sign up each year, yet many others who are interested remain unsure of how to begin participating.

Both events have clear online information, detailed race guides and well-organised registration systems. Despite this, I have friends who were keen to sign up but felt intimidated by the technical terminology, unfamiliar race formats or the perception that these events are “only for the very fit”.

This points to a wider issue: While such events promote public health, practical accessibility and public understanding remain uneven.

For example, Hyrox involves unfamiliar stations such as SkiErgs and sled pushes, which may discourage newcomers. SCSM requires participants to navigate categories, qualifying times and race-day logistics.

These are manageable once explained, but the learning curve can be steep for beginners.

There is room to make these events more welcoming.

Clearer introductory guides, community-led training groups and partnerships with ActiveSG gyms could help more Singaporeans take the first step.

Schools and workplaces could also play a role by organising beginner-friendly sessions or subsidising entry fees to encourage wider participation.

With thoughtful improvements, major fitness events can become not just competitive experiences for trained athletes, but accessible pathways that support Singapore’s long-term public health goals.

Ethan Tan