CrossFit Participants Research Articles

CrossFit Participation and Medication Use: Observations from a UK Population Survey

Chronic diseases, responsible for 74% of global mortality, impose a substantial health burden. This study investigates the perceived effects of CrossFit, a form of functional training, on medication use in the UK population. The research aims to provide insights into how CrossFit might relate to medical interventions for individuals with long-term health conditions. The study, encompassing 1,211 UK residents (over 18yrs.) recruited via CrossFit Affiliates, involved a 14-question online survey covering information pertaining to participants’ training background, medication use, medical interventions as well as specific comments relating to the impact of CrossFit on participants overall health. Following engagement in CrossFit training, a 54% reported reduction in medication usage was observed. This included 69 participants discontinuing medication and 82 reporting significantly reducing medication use within the first 6 months. Younger age groups (20-39 years) showed greater medication reduction, with 43% of those aged 20-29 reducing medication by over half and 27% eliminating it entirely. In the 30-39 age group, 29% eliminated medication and 20% reduced it significantly. Older age groups also saw reductions, though less pronounced. A Spearman's rank correlation identified a strong positive correlation between age and reductions to medication usage r(1137) = 0.110, p = 0.001. Further analysis of CrossFit training history indicated that neither CrossFit training age, nor CrossFit training frequency impacted perceptions of medication usage (r(1137) = -0.051, p = 0.085 and r(1137) = -0.043, p = 0.150) suggesting that participants did not need to be experienced or frequent CrossFit participants to experience the perceived benefits when it came to reducing medication use. Antidepressants, asthma inhalers, and painkillers were the most common medications used. Forty percent of all participants also reported fewer medical appointments, with this figure rising to 43% among those who were on medication before starting CrossFit. CrossFit training years and training frequency did not significantly correlate with whether participants reduced medical appointments or not (r(1137) = -0.034, p = 0.248, r(1137) = -0.032, p = 0.275) indicating that neither training history nor frequency impacted the perceived benefits of CrossFit training when associated with medical intervention. Seventy-one respondents reported cancelling or postponing surgeries due to the benefits of CrossFit, of these 55% reported reduced symptoms and 31% reported no longer needing surgery. A chi-squared test was conducted to explore the relationship between session frequency and medication reduction, which suggested a potential association; however, the result was not statistically significant (χ² = 12.72, df = 12.59, p = 0.10). Overall, CrossFit participants reported reduction in medication usage, medical appointments, and surgical intervention needed.

Are 7 MM neoprene knee sleeves capable of modifying the knee kinematics and kinetics during box jump and front squat exercises in healthy CrossFit practitioners? An exploratory cross-sectional study

ObjectiveInvestigate whether wearing 7 mm neoprene knee sleeves during the front squat and box jump CrossFit exercises change the biomechanics of the knee joint. Designa cross-sectional exploratory study. SettingLaboratory-based. ParticipantsSeventeen male healthy CrossFit participants completed front squats and box jumps with knee sleeves (KS) and without knee sleeves (WKS). Main outcomes measuresKinematic and kinetic data of the knee in the sagittal, frontal and transverse planes were obtained for the two tasks and under the two experimental situations. The maximum load lifted on 1 MR test was recorded under KS and WKS conditions. The GROC scales were applied after each exercise and condition to assess participants' self-reported perception of stability. ResultsThe KS reduced the knee range of motion in the transverse plane during box jump (p = 0.029) and the peak knee external adduction moment (p = 0.047) during front squat compared to WKS. The 1RM during front squat increased in KS compared to WKS (p < 0.001). Most participants (94%) reported that they felt better stability using KS and all participants (100%) believed that knee sleeves would avoid knee pain. Conclusionneoprene knee sleeves have little impact on the biomechanics of the knee joint during CrossFit. However, participants reported improved knee stability.

INTRINSIC VS. EXTRINSIC MOTIVATION AMONG RECREATIONAL CROSSFIT ATHLETES: A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION

Research has shown that many types of recreational athletes are intrinsically rather than extrinsically motivated to participate in their sport. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine if recreational CrossFit participants are inclined to be more intrinsically or extrinsically motivated to participate in their sport. Methods: Participants were recruited from a local CrossFit gym in Southern Utah where they were provided a QR code linked to the Sports Motivation Scale II (SMS II survey). The SMS II survey assess 6 subscales of motivation regulation (intrinsic, integrated, identified, introjected, external, and non). Each of the 18 SMS II survey questions is scored on a Likert scale of 1-7 on a continuum of “Does not correspond at all” to “Corresponds completely”. For the purpose of the study, CrossFit participants were considered to as athletes. Results: The SMS II subscale scores were as follows (mean±SD): intrinsic (5.7±1.3), integrated (5.5±1.1), identified (6.2±1.0), introjected (4.6±1.3), external (2.4±1.4), and non (1.7±1.1). The Identified regulation subscale scores were greater than all other subscales scores (p&amp;lt;0.05). The Intrinsic and Integrated regulation subscale scores were similar and greater than Introjected, External and Non regulation subscale scores (p&amp;lt;0.05). The Introjected regulation subscale scores were greater than the External and Non regulation subscale scores (p&amp;lt;0.05). The External regulation subscale scores were greater than the Non regulation subscores (p&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusions: Within the parameters of this study, it appears that recreational CrossFit participants find motivation within themselves to participate in CrossFit training style exercise sessions.&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/soc/0018/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Interpersonal emotions in team sports

This research explores how emotional contagion within a team impacts emotions, team cohesion, collective efficacy perception, effort perception, perceived performance, and actual performance outcomes. Forty-seven non-competitive amateur cross-fit participants were split into two experimental groups: high pleasantness-high arousal (HH) and low pleasantness-low arousal (LL). To stimulate these mood states, two trained associates were engaged, which served as catalysts for the teams' "emotional contagion". Participants from the HH group outperformed and exerted more effort than those from the LL group, though they perceived their effort levels to be similar. They demonstrated greater collective efficacy and team cohesion, had a more positive emotional state, and perceived their team's performance as superior. Emotional contagion plays a significant role in team dynamics and physical outcomes. The practical implications of emotional contagion are discussed.

Trunk, Mass Grasp, Knee, and Hip Muscle Performance in CrossFit Participants: Reference Values According to Participants' Sex and Limb Dominance.

CrossFit is characterized by a diverse range of exercises recruiting different muscles and requiring different muscle functions. A characterization of muscular performance parameters in this population is needed. To determine reference values for various aspects of muscular performance of muscles of the trunk, thigh, hip, and mass grasp in CrossFit participants. Also, this investigation aimed to compare the strength measures between male and female CrossFit participants, as well as between dominant and non-dominant limbs. Descriptive, Cross-sectional. Laboratory. Isometric strength of trunk extensors (TE) and mass grasp was measured with handheld and Jamar dynamometer respectively. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to assess the muscle performance of the knee flexors (KF) and extensors (KE) (at 60º/s and 300º/s), and hip flexors (HF), extensors (HE), and abductors (HA) (60º/s and 240º/s ). Reference values for torque, work, power, fatigue, flexor:extensor ratio for the knee (hamstring:quadriceps - H:Q) and hip (HF:HE) joints were calculated. The torque and work values were normalized by the body mass. Mixed multivariate and univariate analyses of variance and independent t-tests were used for statistical analyses to compare between sexes and limbs. Participants included 111 individuals (58 males and 53 females) with at least one year of experience in CrossFit. Normative data are provided for the outcome variables. Males had greater values of muscular performance parameters than females in most variables (p<0.05). Also, the dominant limb had greater mass grasp strength (p<0.002), greater KE power at 60º/s (p=0.015), lower H:Q ratio at 60º/s (p=0.021) and 300º/s (p=0.008), and lower KE fatigue (p=0.002). This study provides reference values for the trunk extensors, mass grasp, knee, and hip muscle performance in male and female CrossFit practitioners. Their muscle performance profile was characterized by few inter-limb asymmetries, and males demonstrated greater muscular performance outcomes than females, even after normalization by body mass. These reference values can be used for comparisons in research and clinical settings. 3b.

A Review of the Epidemiology of CrossFit-Related Injuries

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the epidemiology of injury in CrossFit participants using a systematic review format.&#x0D; Methodology: In total, 12 studies were selected for review. The Electronic Databases which were searched include; Google Scholar, Human Kinetics Journal, NCBI Journal of Sport Science, PUBMed and the SAGE Journals. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the STROBE Criteria recommendations. Data was also collected by searching the NSCA Journal of Strength and Sport Conditioning Research databases. Reviewed items were selected using the PRISMA recommendations for systematic review. The inclusion and exclusion followed PICO recommendations.&#x0D; Findings: CrossFit is an extremely varied sport with a large list of demands and due to its unpredictable nature it may seem to pose a high risk of injury to participants. However, CrossFit has been shown to be a relatively safe sport. Injuries were found to foremostly in the shoulders followed by the lower back and the knees. These injuries can be hypothesized to be a result of overtraining or excess workload. Considerations may be taken in the future to reduce the risk of injury in these areas. Factors which may influence the risk of injury in these areas were found during the review.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Recommendations include- emphasis on proper form and technique; gradually increasing training load; incorporating strength and mobility training; individualize programming and scaling; prioritizing rest days and recovery and educating participants on injury prevention.&#x0D;

Metabolic response during high-intensity interval exercise and resting vascular and mitochondrial function in CrossFit participants

High-intensity functional training (HIFT) can play a major role in preventing cardiometabolic disease. The majority of HIFT interventions incorporate CrossFit (CF) training. We measured aerobic capacity, metabolic response during high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), resting mitochondrial oxidative capacity, and resting vascular function in adults who participated in CF training (&amp;gt; one year) vs. a sedentary group completing &amp;lt;2 h·wk-1 of structure exercise for &amp;gt; one year (SED). Twenty-one participants were recruited (CF n = 13 vs. SED n = 8). CF participants had a 33.0% greater relative VO2 peak (p&amp;lt;.001) and lower body fat percentage (CF = 18.6 [3.8] vs. SED = 30.3 [8.4]; p&amp;lt;.001). CF participants had higher exercising substrate oxidation when expressed as absolute and body weight relative values (p&amp;lt;.013), but not when expressed relative to lean mass (p&amp;gt;.200). CF participants had greater mitochondrial oxidative capacity (p=.014). There were no differences in large artery function, but CF participants had greater baseline arterial diameter (p=.004) and faster reperfusion following arterial occlusion (p&amp;lt;.05). These data support HIFT programs’ effectiveness in improving fitness, weight status, and metabolic, mitochondrial, and vascular function.

A comparative study on vital capacity and agility between resistance-trained individuals and CrossFit participants

A comparative study on vital capacity and agility between resistance-trained individuals and CrossFit participants

EFFECT OF WRIST WRAP IN HANDGRIP STRENGTH IN CROSSFIT.

Analyze wrist wrap influence on the values of maximum handgrip strength and dynamic resistance. A controlled randomized cross-over trial including 54 Crossfit participants randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 began the series of tests with control wrapping, and Group 2 started with functional wrapping. Alternate series of four dynamic grip strength resistance tests were performed, and the resistance and fatigue values were calculated. The values obtained from the grip tests did not indicate any effect from the wrist wrap for an increase in maximum grip strength (35.7 vs. 35.6 kg; p=0.737) or greater endurance (78.2 vs. 77.8%; p=0.549). Fatigue was also equal in both groups (mean differences between the groups: 0.1 kg, CI= -0.7-0.8; p=0.779). The hypothesis that using a wrist wrap increases maximum strength and dynamic handgrip endurance was rejected in this study. Evidence Level I; Randomized control trial .

“We Should Not Have the Same Restrictions as Everybody Else:” Southeastern US CrossFit Coaches’ Perceptions of COVID-19 Restrictions

Abstract The spread of the COVID-19 virus significantly impacted the fitness industry with government restrictions including mandated closures. CrossFit, a major player in the global fitness industry, faced a new industry landscape and significant internal division while coping with the crisis. This study contributes to the literature on CrossFit coaches, who are important cultural figures in fitness services. This study investigated CrossFit coaches’ perceptions of COVID-19 restrictions through semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample in Georgia and Florida, U.S. The coaches displayed CrossFit exceptionalism, believing that fitness facilities should have been treated differently, and CrossFit gyms in particular were distinctive enough to merit special consideration. Some coaches approved of the governmental response, but others disapproved, and many expressed gratitude that they were in states with short restriction periods. Their demonstration of uncertainty, however, somewhat conflicted with their exceptionalism. These perceptions may influence coaches’ behaviors and impact CrossFit participants, which makes the topic worthy of additional study.

CrossFit Participants And Collegiate Athletes Exhibit Consistent Differences In Hydration Parameters

Collegiate athletics programs and CrossFit facilities are environments that are associated with intense, competitive, and highly structured resistance training. Although the characteristics of stress are unique to each setting, maintenance of hydration is important to the health and performance of both exercising populations. PURPOSE: To examine differences in hydration parameters between Division I collegiate athletes and consistent CrossFit participants. METHODS: We scanned 288 women (28.5% athletes) and 244 men (13.1% athletes) using the InBody 770 bioelectrical impedance analyzer (InBody USA, Cerritos, CA). There were 7 women's sports and 6 men's sports represented. We used coarsened exact matching to generate subsamples that were matched for sex, age, and bodyweight; 96 subjects were retained (48 Division I athletes, 48 CrossFit members). This was considered the study sample. Multiple linear regression models, holding height and body fat percent constant, tested for differences in total body water (TBW), intracellular water (ICW), and extracellular water (ECW). Significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Across the study sample, subject age was 21.7 ± 3.1 yr, height was 68.2 ± 4.0 in, weight was 169.8 ± 28.0 lb, body fat percent was 20.4 ± 10.0%, TBW was 98.4 ± 18.7 lb, ICW was 62.2 ± 12.0 lb, and ECW was 36.2 ± 6.7 lb. Holding constant height and body fat percent, linear regression revealed CrossFit participants to have an additional 8.2 lb of TBW (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 3.8 to 12.6); the overall model was significant (p < 0.001; r2 = 0.754). Assessment of individual fluid compartments revealed CrossFit participants to have 5.3 lb more ICW (p = 0.001; 95% CI: 2.3 to 8.2) and 2.9 lb more ECW (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.4 to 4.4). Both models were significant (p < 0.001; ICW r2 = 0.735; ECW r2 = 0.781). CONCLUSIONS: After matching samples for sex, age, and bodyweight, and holding height and body fat percent constant, CrossFit participants emerged with significantly higher values in TBW, ICW, and ECW. Although universities generally employ supervisory staff to monitor athlete training, our results indicate that competitive athletes may be less hydrated than other exercising populations. More focus on hydration practices may be warranted at the collegiate level.

The dark side of sport training. Self-esteem, narcissism and exercise addiction in women's CrossFit training

IntroductionCrossFit is among the sports that involve high-intensity exercises. It often takes the form of group training and may lead to an increased risk for injuries in the case of excessive commitment. Exercise addiction (EA), which may lead to more frequent injuries, is often related to low self-esteem and narcissism. The aims of this study were: to establish the percentage of CrossFit participants at risk from EA; to examine whether there are differences in psychological traits between those CrossFit participants at risk and those not at risk; and to establish profiles of CrossFit participants according to their psychological traits and EA levels. MethodsThe study included 110 women training CrossFit. The questionnaires used were as follows: Exercise Addiction Inventory, Self-Liking/Self-Competence Scale, Self-Compassion Short Scale, Appearance Schemas Inventory, Satisfaction with Life Scale and Narcissistic Admiration, and a Rivalry Questionnaire. ResultsIn total, 24.5% of the participants were at a high risk of EA. Strong EA in women training CrossFit is related to two profiles of self-esteem and narcissism. One is characterised by high self-esteem and high narcissism connected with admiration, and the second – by low self-esteem and high rivalry narcissism. ConclusionsThe links between self-image, narcissism and EA are complex; the knowledge of various profiles of psychological factors that may lead to a high addiction risk may translate into creating psychoeducational programs concerning risky training, which are adequately suited to the needs of the women.

Assessment of Metabolic Response During High‐Intensity Interval Exercise and Resting Vascular and Mitochondrial Function in Recreational CrossFit Participants

BackgroundHigh‐intensity functional training (HIFT) can play a major role in physiological adaptations to prevent cardiometabolic disease. A majority of HIFT interventions incorporate a CrossFit (CF) training methodology, in which the goal is to increase work capacity over time while using mono‐structural, body weight, and weightlifting movements.MethodsWe measured aerobic capacity, metabolic response during high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE), resting mitochondrial oxidative capacity, and resting large vessel function and microvascular reactivity in adults who have participated in a CF exercise for greater than one year vs. a sedentary group completing &lt;2 h·wk‐1 of structure exercise for at least one year (SED).Results21 healthy, non‐smoking, participants were recruited (CF n = 13 vs. SED n = 8). CF participants had 40.4% greater absolute and 33.0% relative VO2 peak (P &lt; 0.001) and lower body composition (CF = 18.6 (3.8) vs. SED = 30.3 (8.4); P &lt; 0.001). CF participants had lower ratings of perceived exertion (P = 0.022) with higher respiratory responses (P &lt; 0.05) and a lower heart rate response during HIIE (P = 0.024). CF participants had higher fat and carbohydrate oxidation when expressed as absolute and body weight relative values (P &lt; 0.013), but not when expressed relative to lean mass (P &gt; 0.200), indicating that skeletal muscle mass is a primary driver in substrate oxidation. CF participants had greater mitochondrial oxidative capacity (CF n = 12; P = 0.014). There were no differences in large artery function, but CF participants had greater baseline arterial diameter (CF n = 12; P = 0.004) and faster reperfusion following arterial occlusion (CF n = 12; P &lt; 0.05), suggesting some influence of exercise habits on microvascular function.ConclusionOverall, these data support the effectiveness of HIFT programs, like CF exercise, to improve fitness and weight status and metabolic, mitochondrial, and vascular function.

Effect of a Four-Week Vegan Diet on Performance, Training Efficiency and Blood Biochemical Indices in CrossFit-Trained Participants.

This interventional study examined the effect of a four-week vegan diet (VegD) during a four-week high-intensity functional training (HIFT) on performance, training results and blood biochemical indices in female (n = 12) and male (n = 8) moderate-trained CrossFit participants. The whole study group performed the maximum number of repetitions with a load of 70% one repetition-maximum (1RM) and a modified Fight Gone Bad (FGBMod) test before and after a dietary intervention (the group was divided to follow a VegD or a traditional mixed diet (MixD)) in a randomised and parallel design. Pre-exercise resting blood samples were also analysed. There was a significant improvement in the number of repetitions performed at a load corresponding to 70% of 1RM in the classic squat in the MixD group (p < 0.001), and in the classic deadlift in the VegD group (p = 0.014). Furthermore, there was a significant improvement in the results of the FGBMod performance test after a MixD. Moreover, an improvement in some exercises in the modified FGBMod test (Wall Ball after the VegD and the MixD, and rowing after the MixD) was also observed. However, differences between the MixD and the VegD groups were not clinically relevant. In conclusion, the short-term study conducted here indicated that a VegD in HIFT training positively affects strength endurance in the classic deadlift but is unlikely to be more beneficial in improving performance than a MixD.

Exploring social networks relative to various types of exercise self-efficacy within CrossFit participants

ABSTRACT According to Self-Efficacy Theory (SET; Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215), social networks and support are important in developing beneficial levels of self-efficacy. However, empirical evidence of the relationship between social networks and self-efficacy is lacking, especially concerning exercise self-efficacy. Using SET and Social Network Analysis, this study examines factors related to six aspects of exercise self-efficacy among CrossFit participants, with a particular focus on social networks and support. Members from two CrossFit gyms (N=127; 35.55 ± 12.89 years, 66.9% female) completed surveys assessing various aspects of exercise self-efficacy by indicating their confidence in completing activities that require 1) effort, 2) resistance, 3) agility, 4) coordination, 5) balance, and 6) strength. Participants also reported their mastery of CrossFit exercises, social connections within CrossFit, sense of community, and emotions elicited through exercise. Linear network autocorrelation models revealed a person’s position within their social network (e.g., degree, closeness) and the self-efficacy scores of their social contacts were associated with participants’ effort self-efficacy (Gym 1: R2 =0.26, p<.001; Gym 2: R2 =0.82, p<.001), agility self-efficacy (Gym 1: R2 =0.43, p<.001; Gym 2: R2 =0.63, p<.001), and strength self-efficacy (Gym 1: R2 =0.45, p<.001; Gym 2: R2 =0.84, p<.001). This study supports the SET and a growing body of literature documenting the relationship between social networks and self-efficacy and suggests social network indices and effects are important in explaining aspects of exercise self-efficacy in these CrossFit networks.

Injury rate among CrossFit participants and its associated risk factors in Riyadh: A cross-sectional study

Background: CrossFit is a form of exercise that incorporates rapid and successive high-intensity movements. This study assesses the rate and risk factors of CrossFit injuries. Materials and Methods: This is an analytical, cross-sectional study that was conducted in four CrossFit affiliates (two for males and two for females) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A validated questionnaire was used to collect the data from CrossFit athletes between January and April 2018. Data collected were incidence, severity, number of injuries, and potential risk factors for injury in the preceding 6 months. Using the SPSS software, data were analyzed using the t-test, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Among the 255 participants, 31.37% had an injury during the last 6 months' period. The incidence rate of injury was 3.33/1000 athlete hours. Participants who did not include cool down in their CrossFit workout were significantly more likely to be injured (41.58% vs. 24.68%, P = 0.004). Injured participants reported higher weekly athlete training hours (5.73 ± 3.89 vs. 4.55 ± 2.94, P = 0.008). Most of the participants' injuries were acute and required medical attention (51%). Conclusion: Injury rate among CrossFit athletes in Saudi Arabia is relatively high, especially among those who train regularly and those who do not incorporate cool-down in their CrossFit regimen. Cooling-down after CrossFit activities might help in reducing the rate of injury.

Psychological variables of CrossFit participants: a systematic review.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to review the existing literature concerning the psychological variables of CrossFit participants.MethodologyThis review followed the PRISMA guidelines and was documented in the PROSPERO registry (CRD42018091177). Six electronic databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane) were searched from their inception through July 2020. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed.ResultsThirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. We observed an increase in satisfaction, clinical addiction, and enjoyment among participants related to exercise, social improvement, and high intrinsic motivation to participate for the purpose of enjoyment, challenge, and affiliation. Perceptions of effort were high among CrossFit participants. Some studies found that the reaction time was impaired after the CrossFit session, whereas others found no changes in mental health, self-esteem, and well-being after training.ConclusionAdherence and maintenance of the practice of CrossFit are related to psychological variables such as motivation and satisfaction of basic psychological needs. CrossFit participants demonstrated high perception of effort, intrinsic motivation, and reasons for practice such as enjoyment, challenge, and affiliation. The quality assessment demonstrated the need for more detail in the methods section of future investigations. Additional high-quality studies are needed to investigate the effects of CrossFit training on the mental health of participants.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1007/s11332-020-00685-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Assessment of Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status in CrossFit-Trained Individuals: A Descriptive Study.

CrossFit is a discipline with high training and nutritional requirements. To date, there is only scarce data evaluating nutrition among CrossFit training and they mostly focus on selected nutritional interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this descriptive study was the assessment of dietary intake and nutritional status in a selected group of CrossFit-trained participants. The study consisted of 62 CrossFit athletes (31 men and 31 women, aged 31.0 ± 5.2 and 30.0 ± 4.3 years, respectively). Body composition was analyzed by electrical bioimpedance. Dietary intake was assessed using a standardized 3-day food record. Body fat percentage for females and males was 20.3 ± 4.3% and 13.7 ± 3.3% respectively. The energy intake in the diet was lower (~1700 kcal in women and ~2300 kcal in men) than the recommended demand. Moreover, low consumption of carbohydrates was stated, as well as an inadequate intake of folate, vitamin E (in women), and minerals, such as Fe and Ca (in women). The energy, carbohydrate, iron, and calcium intake in the CrossFit participants’ diet was too low in comparison to recommendations. It seems justified to educate athletes and coaches about nutritional habits, and individual energy and nutrients requirements.

Part II: Comparison of Crossfit-Related Injury Presenting to Sports Medicine Clinic by Sex and Age.

To examine CrossFit-related injuries based on sex and age. Retrospective case series. A tertiary-level pediatric sports medicine clinic. CrossFit athletes. CrossFit-related injuries by sex (males vs females) and age groups (≤19 years vs >19 years) using a χ analysis with P = 0.05, odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Among injured CrossFit athletes, female athletes sustained lower extremity injuries more frequently than male athletes (P = 0.011; OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.25-5.65). In observed CrossFit injuries, shoulder injuries were more frequently observed in male athletes compared with female athletes (P = 0.049; OR, 2.79; 95% CI, 0.98-7.95). Additionally, a greater proportion of CrossFit athletes aged 19 years and younger suffered trunk/spine injuries than those older than 19 years (P = 0.027; OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.10-6.21) in injured CrossFit athletes. The current results indicated sex- and age-specific susceptibility to CrossFit-related injuries based on body parts and diagnoses. The presented information may be useful to develop a safer exercise program, especially for pediatric and adolescent CrossFit participants.

Physiological differences between advanced CrossFit athletes, recreational CrossFit participants, and physically-active adults.

This investigation examined anthropometric, hormonal, and physiological differences between advanced (ADV; n = 8, 27.8 ± 4.2 years, 170 ± 11 cm, 79.8 ± 13.3 kg) and recreational (REC; n = 8, 33.5 ± 8.1 years, 172 ± 14 cm, 76.3 ± 19.5 kg) CrossFit (CF) trained participants in comparison to physically-active controls (CON; n = 7, 27.5 ± 6.7 years, 171 ± 14 cm, 74.5 ± 14.3 kg). ADV and REC were distinguished by their past competitive success. REC and CON were resistance-trained (>2 years) and exercised on 3–5 days·wk-1 for the past year, but CON utilized traditional resistance and cardiovascular exercise. All participants provided a fasted, resting blood sample and completed assessments of resting metabolic rate, body composition, muscle morphology, isometric mid-thigh pull strength, peak aerobic capacity, and a 3-minute maximal cycle ergometer sprint across two separate occasions (separated by 3–7 days). Blood samples were analyzed for testosterone, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor-1. Compared to both REC and CON, one-way analysis of variance revealed ADV to possess lower body fat percentage (6.7–8.3%, p = 0.007), greater bone and non-bone lean mass (12.5–26.8%, p ≤ 0.028), muscle morphology characteristics (14.2–59.9%, p < 0.05), isometric strength characteristics (15.4–41.8%, p < 0.05), peak aerobic capacity (18.8–19.1%, p = 0.002), and 3-minute cycling performance (15.4–51.1%, p ≤ 0.023). No differences were seen between REC and CON, or between all groups for resting metabolic rate or hormone concentrations. These data suggest ADV possess several physiological advantages over REC and CON, whereas similar physiological characteristics were present in individuals who have been regularly participating in either CF or resistance and cardiovascular training for the past year.