What Is Hybrid Training? A Beginner's Guide (Settle)

If you've ever wondered whether you should lift weights or go for a run, hybrid training is the answer: both. It's the fastest-growing way to train in the UK right now, and at TNT Hybrid in Settle, it's the only thing we do. This guide explains exactly what hybrid training is, who it suits, and what your first session could look like.

Quick answer: Hybrid training combines strength training and cardio conditioning in one programme, so you build muscle and fitness at the same time instead of choosing between lifting and running. A typical week mixes heavy lifting, conditioning and sessions that blend both. At TNT Hybrid in Settle every session scales to your level, so beginners can start straight away.

What Is Hybrid Training?

Hybrid training combines strength work and cardiovascular conditioning in the same programme, rather than making you choose between the two. Instead of picking powerlifting or running, you build both qualities side by side — heavy lifts one day, engine work the next, and sessions that blend both when it counts.

The goal isn't to become the strongest person in the room or the fastest. It's to become genuinely fit: strong enough to move real weight, fit enough to keep going, and durable enough to train hard for years, not months.

Why Hybrid Training Has Taken Off

Most people don't actually want to specialise. They want to feel strong, look after their heart and lungs, move well, and enjoy their training. Hybrid training delivers all of that in one programme instead of forcing a trade-off.

• Balanced fitness — strength, endurance, speed and mobility all improve together
• Time-efficient — one structured programme instead of juggling separate gym and cardio plans
• Keeps training interesting — no two weeks look the same
• Builds a body that performs in real life, not just in the gym mirror

Hybrid Training at TNT Hybrid, Settle

Every coach at TNT Hybrid trains this way themselves. Co-owner Tomi Tatham boxed professionally, was ranked number four in the UK at light heavyweight, and has since competed in strongman, powerlifting and Hyrox. Hannah, Louise, Finn and the rest of the team bring the same mix of strength, conditioning and endurance backgrounds into every session they coach. Meet the coaches.

A typical week at TNT Hybrid might include a heavy lifting session, a conditioning class built around rowing, ski erg and sled work, and a session that blends both — kettlebell complexes, sandbag carries and functional strength movements designed to leave you properly tested.

At 6,000 sq ft, we're Settle's most complete training facility, and the only gym in the Yorkshire Dales built specifically around hybrid training. You won't find this combination of equipment, coaching and programming anywhere else locally.

Is Hybrid Training Good for Beginners?

Yes — and it's often easier to start than people expect. Hybrid training is fully scalable. Loads, distances and intensities are adjusted to your current level, so a complete beginner and a competitive athlete can train in the same session, working at their own pace.

If you've never trained before, you don't need to arrive fit. You need to arrive willing. Our coaches build every session around where you are right now, not where you'll be in six months.

What Does a First Hybrid Session Look Like?

Expect a warm-up that raises your heart rate and prepares your joints, a strength block focused on fundamental movements like squats, presses and deadlifts, and a conditioning finisher using kit like the ski erg, sled or rower. Coaches scale every element, so you're always working hard relative to your own ability — never compared to anyone else in the room.

Hybrid Training vs CrossFit — What's the Difference?

They share some DNA, but the emphasis is different. CrossFit is built around constantly varied, high-intensity functional movement, often tested and scored. Hybrid training is more structured around long-term strength and endurance development — think of it as programmed progress rather than daily competition. Many of our members enjoy elements of both, and our coaches build sessions that borrow the best of each.

Want a race to aim for? Hyrox is hybrid training turned into an event. Our Hyrox training guide shows how to prepare in Settle.

Getting Started at TNT Hybrid

You don't need any experience, any equipment, or a training partner to start. You need one decision: to walk through the door. Our coaches will assess where you're at, explain how sessions are structured, and get you training safely from day one.

Try a day pass for £10 and see what a hybrid approach feels like for yourself. It is refunded in full if you join within the week. Visit our membership page to find the plan that fits, browse upcoming classes, or meet the coaching team before you commit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hybrid training in simple terms?

Hybrid training combines strength training and cardio conditioning in one programme, so you build muscle and improve endurance at the same time instead of choosing one over the other.

Is hybrid training good for complete beginners?

Yes. Every movement and session at TNT Hybrid is scalable to your current fitness level, so beginners train safely alongside more experienced members without being held back or pushed too hard.

What's the difference between hybrid training and CrossFit?

CrossFit focuses on varied, high-intensity functional movements, often scored daily. Hybrid training is more structured around progressive strength and endurance development over weeks and months.

How many days a week should I hybrid train?

Most members train 3–5 sessions a week, mixing strength-focused days with conditioning-focused days. Your coach will help you find a sustainable schedule around your lifestyle.

Can you build muscle and improve endurance at the same time?

Yes. With the right programming — which is exactly what hybrid training provides — you can develop strength and cardiovascular fitness together without one undermining the other.

Is TNT Hybrid the only hybrid training gym in the Yorkshire Dales?

Yes. TNT Hybrid is Settle's only dedicated hybrid training facility, purpose-built with the equipment, programming and coaching to train strength and conditioning together under one roof.

Do I need any equipment or experience before my first session?

No. Just bring yourself. TNT Hybrid coaches guide you through every movement, scale the session to your level, and make sure your first visit is welcoming, not intimidating.

Ready to start? See memberships, call us on 07942 150569, email gym@tnt-hybrid.co.uk or book through the TNT Hybrid app on iOS and Android.