The fitness landscape is constantly evolving, with trends rising and falling at lightning speed. In this inaugural episode of our new "SOF Monthly" series, we dive into two significant movements capturing attention right now: the hybrid athlete phenomenon and the growing focus on menopausal women's fitness.

What exactly constitutes a hybrid athlete? We break down this increasingly popular approach to fitness that balances strength training, running capacity, and high-intensity work. It's not about excelling in any single domain but maintaining competency across multiple disciplines. We explore why this resonates with so many people who've grown bored with traditional strength or endurance training, the social benefits it provides, and the considerable time commitment required to maintain this versatility.

The conversation shifts to the welcome evolution in how the fitness industry addresses menopause. After decades of limited solutions, there's finally recognition that appropriate exercise strategies can dramatically improve quality of life during this transition. We dissect common misconceptions, emphasising that while hormonal changes influence training responses, the fundamental principles remain consistent – master basic movements first, then add complexity and load.

We also share personal insights into our current training regimens. Joey details his intense preparation for jiu-jitsu competitions and an upcoming boxing match, averaging 10-12 sessions weekly across multiple disciplines. Meanwhile, Kieran reveals how he's adapted to a busy schedule by implementing ultra-efficient 30-minute strength sessions, maintaining his fitness despite dramatically reduced training time.

Whether you're considering becoming more versatile in your fitness pursuits or navigating physical changes during menopause, this conversation offers practical wisdom to help you train smarter, not just harder. Connect with us on social media with your questions for future episodes!