A large-scale functional race, Meros race 2026, organized by the Functional All-Around Federation of Uzbekistan, took place in the capital. The competition brought together about 200 athletes of various skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
The event was held at the sports complex of the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of Tashkent city and lasted from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Participants underwent a series of tests combining running, strength work, endurance, and speed.
According to organizers, Meros race is held to popularize functional all-around, promote a healthy lifestyle, and develop the sports community in Uzbekistan. Another goal was to identify the most prepared athletes in the country.
This year, 200 slots were available for participation. Athletes competed in several categories: among men — juniors, amateurs, masters, intermediate, and professionals; among women — beginners and amateurs.
The race format alternated running segments with functional exercises. Depending on the category, participants performed exercises on a ski simulator, sled push and pull, rowing, burpee with jump, farmer's walk, lunges with a bag, and ball throws at a target. For professional categories, the distance included 8 km of running and eight exercises.
For amateurs, the load was adapted: a 3.2 km run with functional stages in between. The format retained the main idea of the race — to test not only strength but also the ability to distribute energy, maintain pace, and continue moving after each heavy stage.
At the venue, participants started by categories. Throughout the day, the sports complex operated in a continuous competition mode: warm-up, start, running segments, strength stations, finish, and preparation of the next participants.
A feature of Meros race is the combination of several types of load. Being just a fast runner or a strong athlete is not enough; each stage requires different preparation: explosive strength, endurance, technique, and breath control.
Organizers also provided team formats, where participants had to cover the distance together and perform tasks alternately. According to the rules, the team must move together, and violation of the order could lead to a penalty.
Final results were determined by fixed time using chips. Winners and prize-winners received cash prizes, valuable gifts, and awards from competition partners.
Source: podrobno.uz