Biomechanical Characterization of the CrossFit® Isabel Workout: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted to biomechanically characterize Isabel’s workout (30 snatch repetitions with 61 kg fixed weight), focusing on eventual changes in knee, hip and shoulder angles. A three-dimensional markerless motion capture system was used to collect data from 11 highly trained male crossfitters along the Isabel workout performed at maximal effort. The routine was analyzed globally and in initial, middle and final phases (10, 20 and 30 repetitions, respectively). Lift total time increased (1.51 ± 0.18 vs. 1.97 ± 0.20 s) and maximal lift velocity (2.64 ± 0.12 vs. 2.32 ± 0.13 m/s) and maximal lift power (15.58 ± 2.34 vs. 13.80 ± 2.49 W/kg) decreased from the initial to final phases, while the time from lift until the bar crossed the hip and shoulder (34.20 ± 4.00 vs. 27.50 ± 5.10 and 39.70 ± 16.80 vs. 30.90 ± 13.90%) decreased along the Isabel workout. In addition, a decrease in hip flexion was observed during the last two phases when the bar crosses the knee (62.62 ± 24.80 vs. 53.60 ± 19.99°). Data evidence a decrease in the power profile and a change in hip flexion throughout the Isabel workout, without compromising the other joints.