YOHKA Is Taking Over Dreamworld This August—Here’s Why Parents Are Calling It The Ultimate Family Fitness Weekend

Dreamworld is about to get a whole lot sweatier—and we mean that in the best possible way.

This August 23–24, Australia’s most iconic theme park is trading rollercoasters for rope climbs (well, temporarily) asYOHKA, the adrenaline-pumping, Olympic-inspired obstacle race, sets up camp for an action-packed weekend of fitness, fun, and family vibes. Whether you’re a HYROX fanatic, a tag-loving teen, or a parent with a ninja-in-training on your hands, YOHKA is shaping up to be the event of the season.

So what exactly is YOHKA—and why is everyone suddenly talking about it?

Let’s break it down.

What is YOHKA?

Born from a blend of fitness racing, parkour, and the nostalgic joy of urban tag, YOHKA is one of the fastest-growing fitness sports in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With its roots in obstacle course racing (OCR), it’s already turning heads on the international stage as part of the Modern Pentathlon for the 2028 LA Olympics—and organisers are pushing for it to stand solo by the time Brisbane 2032 rolls around.

But what makes YOHKA different? It’s urban, fast, exciting, and incredibly family-friendly. Unlike other hardcore fitness events, YOHKA is designed for all ages, with a kids’ course, family activities, and spectator-friendly fun that’ll keep even the most exercise-resistant child engaged (there are snacks, don’t worry).

What To Expect at YOHKA Dreamworld (And Why Your Kids Will Love It)

Here’s what’s in store over the jam-packed two days:

 YOHKA 100m Sprint Course

This is the flagship event—a 12-obstacle, 100-metre sprint that the pros can complete in just 20 seconds (seriously). Think: monkey bars, agility walls, rope climbs, and warp-speed sprints. It’s thrilling to watch, fun to attempt, and gives big-time Ninja Warrior vibes with Olympic potential. Perfect for athletic parents or teens keen to test their speed and skill.

 YOHKA Kids

This is where your mini movers come in. The kid-sized course is designed for children aged 5+, and yes, parents are welcome to help them through. Expect foam blocks, crawling tunnels, balance beams, and that squeal-inducing feeling of I DID IT!

 YOHKA Pursuit (Urban Tag)

Tag, but make it epic. Teams of four race through an urban-themed obstacle zone while dodging and chasing their opponents. It’s fast, sweaty, hilarious, and wildly addictive. We predict this one’s going to be the breakout favourite for sporty siblings and competitive cousins.

️ YOHKA 5KM Challenge

This is your full-body, bootcamp-style workout in race form. Designed for teams or solo entrants, the 5K course combines endurance, strength, and strategy. It’s also a great excuse to rope in your mum friends and call it a “health day” (you’ll deserve a wine after, promise).

 Dreamworld Night Market Activations

On Friday and Saturday night, YOHKA will also be running activations at Dreamworld’s Night Markets. Think: food trucks, DJs, family entertainment, and even a sneak peek at some of the obstacle challenges. If you’re not keen to sweat it out, it’s still a vibe.

Why YOHKA Is Perfect for Parents

Parenthood is basically an obstacle course—so it tracks (pun intended) that this event would strike a chord.

Whether you’re trying to stay fit post-baby, bond with your sporty tween, or simply find a weekend activity that doesn’t involve a screen or soft play centre, YOHKA ticks a lot of boxes:

• Movement for all ages (without the need to book a sitter)
• Confidence building for kids
• A new challenge for parents who miss competitive sport
• No gym membership or Lycra required (but hey, if that’s your thing, rock it)

Plus, it’s held at Dreamworld. So in between tagging strangers and tackling rope climbs, you can hop on the Giant Drop or chill with a churro. Win-win.

Meet the Man Behind the Movement

Photo credit: YOHKA SPORTS IG

At the heart of YOHKA is founder Mick Gleeson, a passionate advocate for inclusive fitness and a dad himself. He’s been instrumental in bringing fitness racing to the masses—without the elitism.

His goal? “To create a sport that’s fast, inclusive, fun to watch, and even more fun to do. One that gets kids off devices, gets parents moving, and creates an entirely new way for families to connect.”

Mick’s top tip for first-timers: “Train for fun. Try some agility drills in the backyard with your kids, climb a few trees, race them up hills. If you’re moving and smiling, you’re doing it right.”

How To Train (Or Not) For YOHKA

You don’t need to be a gym junkie to give YOHKA a go. The courses are scalable, and the vibe is welcoming—not intimidating. That said, if you’re feeling the call to prep, here’s a basic starter pack:

• Agility ladder drills (or skipping rope if you don’t have one)
• Bodyweight strength – Think squats, push-ups, planks
• Core stability – Balance boards, yoga, or child wrangling (that counts)
• Play tag with your kids – Legit, it’s great cardio

Everything You Need To Know

•  Location: Dreamworld Waterpark, Gold Coast
•  Date: August 23–24, 2025
•  Sessions: All day (with night markets Friday and Saturday)
•  Tickets: Pricing and family passes available soon
• ‍‍‍ Best for: Families with kids aged 5+, fitness fans, and parents who don’t mind getting a bit sweaty for fun

Follow @yohka_official and @dreamworldau for updates or visit dreamworld.com.au/events to sign up.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Book It In

You don’t need to be training for the Olympics to enjoy YOHKA. But you might feel like you deserve a medal after a day on the course.

It’s family bonding, fitness, and fun all rolled into one—and that’s something you don’t see every day.

So whether you’re chasing your toddler through the YOHKA Kids zone or high-fiving your teen at the finish line of the 5KM challenge, this is one event you won’t forget.

And hey, if it tires them out enough to sleep early that night? Even better.