From Five to 280: METROX Returns to Cardiff Met for Its Biggest Event Yet

What began as a fitness class with just five participants two and a half years ago has grown into one of Cardiff Met's increasingly popular fitness events, with 280 athletes set to compete in METROX 5 on Saturday 14 November.

The fifth edition of the event will take place at the National Indoor Athletics Centre (NIAC) on Cardiff Metropolitan University's Cyncoed Campus, with approximately 200 spectators also expected throughout the day.

Bringing together experienced competitors, fitness enthusiasts and first-time participants, METROX has developed into an event that combines physical challenges with a strong sense of community.

This year's competition will feature five categories: Men's Solo, Women's Solo, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles, giving athletes the opportunity to test themselves individually or alongside a partner.

Competitors will tackle seven demanding fitness stations, including the Ski Erg, sled push, burpee broad jumps, rowing, farmers carry, plate lunges and wall balls, testing their endurance, strength and determination.

For the first time, METROX will introduce electronic timing chips provided by Real Time Racing, allowing competitors to access their official results online and track their performances.

Red Bull will also return to the event, bringing its promotional vehicle and DJs to provide music and entertainment throughout the day, alongside pre- and post-race refreshments.

But beyond the competition itself, the continued growth of METROX reflects its ambition to make fitness accessible, enjoyable and rewarding for people of different abilities and backgrounds.

Connor Warman, who has been involved in organising the event, said:

"For me, one of the most rewarding parts of METROX has always been bringing people together from all walks of life, giving them the opportunity to challenge themselves, push their limits and experience something they might never have thought possible. Whether competing for a personal best or simply stepping outside their comfort zone, everyone has a place at METROX."

Delivering the biggest edition of METROX to date has also required considerable preparation, with staff and volunteers supporting everything from athlete registrations and course design to timing systems, logistics and event operations.

"Behind the scenes, organising an event of this scale involves everything from ticket sales, athlete entries and timing systems to course design, logistics and staffing. It's been a huge undertaking, and I'm incredibly grateful to all the staff and volunteers who have helped bring this year's event together."

With METROX continuing to grow, Warman has also hinted at further developments in the event's future, with more announcements expected in the coming months.

For now, attention turns to Saturday's competition, where hundreds of athletes will take on the challenge and celebrate the progress they have made in their fitness journeys.

"To everyone competing on Saturday, my biggest advice is simple: soak it all in, enjoy the experience and be proud of what you've achieved just by getting to the start line."

METROX 5 takes place on Saturday 14 November 2026, from 8am to 2pm at NIAC, Cardiff Met's Cyncoed Campus. Spectator entry is free, with friends, family and members of the local community welcome to attend and support the competitors.