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1. Introduction: High-Impact Movements and the Role of Shock Absorption
In HYROX competitions, sandbag lunges and Burpee Broad Jumps are two of the most demanding stations.
- Sandbag Lunges: Require athletes to carry or shoulder heavy loads while stepping forward over long distances.
- Burpee Broad Jumps: Combine push-ups, explosive jumps, and long landings — creating intense impact on the lower body.
These exercises challenge both strength and endurance while placing repeated stress on the knees, ankles, and lower back. Choosing a training surface with strong shock absorption is essential for both performance and injury prevention.
2. Surface Requirements for HYROX Sandbag Lunges & Burpee Broad Jumps
（1）Sandbag Lunges
- Repetitive Loaded Impact: Every step transfers body weight plus added load to the ground.
- Stability: The surface must prevent foot slippage to keep knee alignment stable.
（2） Burpee Broad Jumps
- Explosive Impact Upon Landing: The landing phase generates concentrated force on the feet and calves.
- Grip and Rebound: The surface should prevent slipping while offering enough rebound for efficient power transfer.
3. How Artificial Turf Provides Shock Absorption
（1）Fiber Structure for Impact Absorption
Durable PE turf fibers flex on landing, converting some of the impact force into fiber movement and reducing stress on joints.
（2）Cushion Layer Pressure Distribution
High-quality gym turf often incorporates an EVA or foam underlay that spreads vertical impact forces evenly across a wider surface area, reducing localized pressure.
（3）Balanced Energy Return
While absorbing shock, the underlay also provides moderate rebound, enhancing performance in explosive movements.
（4）Friction Control for Safety
The turf’s fiber texture delivers an optimal friction level with training shoes, ensuring grip without excessive drag.
4. Recommended Turf Specifications for High-Impact HYROX Exercises
- Fiber Material: PE blend for flexibility and durability
- Pile Height: 12–20mm for adequate cushioning without compromising stability
- Density & Stitch Count:30000-80000 stitches/m² for consistent support
- Underlay: EVA or foam padding ≥5mm for optimal shock absorption
- Backing: PU backing for longevity and resistance to curling
- Color & Markings: Green, black, or grey with measurement lines or zone markers for training efficiency
5. Shock Absorption Comparison with Other Flooring Types
| Flooring Type | Shock Absorption | Durability | Grip | Comfort | Versatility |
| Artificial Turf | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | High |
| Rubber Flooring | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Medium |
| EVA Foam Mats | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
Artificial turf strikes the best balance between shock absorption and durability, making it highly versatile for functional training zones.
6. Real-World Case Studies & Feedback
- Case 1: A HYROX training facility installed short-pile turf with an 8mm EVA underlay and reported a 30% reduction in perceived landing impact during Burpee Broad Jumps.
- Case 2: A PE high-density turf lane for sandbag lunges maintained its structural integrity after six months of heavy use with no visible wear.
- Athlete Feedback: Turf’s cushioning and grip reduced knee and calf discomfort after extended training sessions.
7. Maintenance Tips to Extend Turf Lifespan
- Regular Cleaning: Keep fibers elastic by removing dust and debris.
- Footwear Check: Avoid shoes with metal studs or sharp edges.
- Seam & Underlay Inspection: Check quarterly for lifting edges or underlay wear.
- Zone Management: Use different zones for high-impact vs. low-impact activities to prolong turf life.
8. Conclusion & Call to Action
Artificial turf provides superior shock absorption for HYROX sandbag lunges and Burpee Broad Jumps, reducing injury risk and enhancing athletic performance.
If you’re upgrading your functional training zone, investing in high-performance shock-absorbing turf is a smart choice for both safety and long-term durability.
Contact us today for a custom turf design and samples to create a professional-grade HYROX training environment.
