One rep at a time: How Syria’s first Hyrox community is taking shape in Damascus
At a small gym in Damascus, a new kind of sporting community is taking shape. Amid pounding music, gruelling workouts and a communal atmosphere, fitness coach Khaled Al Nehlawi is bringing Hyrox to Syria , one rep at a time. After returning to his country with a passion for the global fitness race, which combines running with strength and endurance exercises, the 36-year-old athlete saw an…
In Damascus, Syria, a new fitness community is emerging, centered around the global competitive sport of Hyrox. Khaled Al Nehlawi, a 36-year-old athlete, has introduced the sport to Syria after returning from international competitions. Hyrox is a grueling event that combines running with various strength and endurance exercises over eight challenging stations.
Al Nehlawi, seeing the enthusiasm of young Syrians, founded Move in April 2026, a community dedicated to Hyrox and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The community, which holds classes three times a week at Helfawi Fitness Club, has seen steady growth since its launch. Al Nehlawi believes that sport can offer more than physical benefits, fostering community and shared goals.
He hopes Move will not only see Syrians competing in Hyrox races abroad but also establish Damascus as a hub for the sport.
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