
The growing popularity of marathons and high-intensity fitness activities in urban India has sparked a new online discussion, with many people questioning their escalating expenses and use. The discussion gathered pace after user Ankit Kedia's X post highlighted the cost of the HYROX fitness event in Bengaluru. Kedia reported that around 9,000 participants paid an admission fee of around ₹9,000, resulting in a total revenue of approximately ₹8.1 crore in a single day.
“HYROX fitness event in Bengaluru saw around 9,000 participants. They charged ₹9,000 per person to participate, which comes to roughly ₹8.1 crore made in a single day. Same trend is showing up in marathons. People are paying ₹3,000– ₹5,000 just to run for a day. Being fit is good," Kedia wrote.
"But why are people spending this much on a one-day event? It feels less about fitness and more about validation,” he added.
Kedia's comments instantly ignited an online debate, with numerous people denouncing what they saw as the growing monetisation of fitness culture.
"Glorified and attention-seeking activity.. Nothing more!" one user said. "It's only a little more money for people who attend these gatherings. Fitness is a lifelong journey, not a one-day show," another added.
"It's just a status symbol," added a third user.
“Organized scam !! Spending 9k on a yearly gym membership might be more beneficial than one off event !! One doesn't need an event to be motivated, this event seems more like a validation and show off !! People proposing for marriage at a fitness event, common cope better !!” wrote one user.
Not everyone agreed with the critique. Several users justified such incidents, claiming that they are the result of months of discipline and preparation rather than a one-time occurrence.
"People spend over 9k at a night club to pop bottles and light fireworks for instagram reels...at least here people are pushing themselves to be better and see how fit they actually are," a user said.
"It was so well-organised that contributing 9K seemed justified. And if you think it's a one-day event, try arranging it at this level... it takes months of effort," another said.
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