X-Training in simple terms is a physical workout consisting of a variety of gym based exercises against a running clock. Competitions normally consist of two lanes with two competitors racing head to head at any point in time. Exercises which normally feature are cardio stations such as row, bike and run, strength exercises such as press ups, shoulder press and bench press and circuit type exercises such as squat thrusts, sit ups and bench jumps. The number of stations is normally ten, but can vary between 7 and 12.

The sport of X-Training was introduced in the early 1990's and the Ultrafit magazine sponsored and organised the first National Championships which were held at Earls Court, London and although the venue changed frequently, it existed for over 10 years. There were other local competitions who at that time based their course on the Ultrafit model. The only other national competition that existed in the 90's was the Tropicana in Birmingham. Sadly both competitions ceased to exist in 2001 and this left the sport in a very difficult position. However, this turned out to be a very positive era for the sport when many competitors decided to organise their own competitions at their own gyms and this led to a greater number and variety of events for competitors to take part in. Dave Coard, from Boxfit led the way with an extremely well organised and popular event at Fitness First in Luton and this was followed by the Dragons Gauntlet and Gorton Grueller in Manchester, the Lucky 7's at Calso in Bromley. Longer running events like the Ironman and the Hampshire and Fire gained in prominence and participation flourished. This was promoted by having different competing levels, such as Intermediate and Beginners and brought a lot of new blood into the sport. 

Participation has fluctuated at certain periods, though there is an underlying desire by many to see the sport grow and to hopefully return to the times when massive one-off events were held at RAF Cosford and covered by Sky TV. Surprisingly Iceland is the leading country with massive participation and events with 6-10 lanes. Retaining much of the new blood is essential to its growth as is an energy and drive by Personal Trainers and Gym Managers to continually promote participation.

Please check out the X-Training section for up to date news and events / results from the national X-Training competitions around the country.