CrossFit Practitioners Research Articles

The relationship between upper cross syndrome posture and shoulder disability

Background: Crossfit is a high-intensity sport that has the potential for injury risk. Upper cross syndrome posture increases muscle tension in the upper region, resulting in pressure on the neck and shoulders, pain, numbness, and decreased body function. This research aimed to determine the relationship between upper cross syndrome posture and shoulder functionality among cross fitter in Bali. Methods: The study was an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design conducted from November 2023 to February 2024 with the main target population for this study being CrossFit practitioners at Crossfit Bali who experienced upper cross syndrome posture. The exclusion criterion is a history of a shoulder injury. The sample size was 50 people who had upper cross syndrome posture. This study used purposive sampling and the measurement of upper cross syndrome posture was used the REEDCO posture test Tragus to Wall test and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index. Results: It was found that 35 people had forward heads, 30 people had rounded shoulders, 33 people had uneven shoulders, and 8 people had tilted heads. Results of the decrease in functional shoulder using the SPADI test showed a mild decrease in 47 people (94%) and a moderate decrease in 3 people (6%). Results of the correlation test with the Spearman rho test, which is 0.647, it is stated the results are not related. Conclusion: There was no relationship between upper cross syndrome and functional shoulders in CrossFit in Bali.

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.

Faktor Resiko Cedera pada Crossfit ditinjau dari Body Posture

Crossfit is a sport that focuses on functional movements in everyday life with a mixture of various types of exercises with competitive and high intensity quickly and successively with limited rest time. High intensity exercise will put a very high risk of injury. To reduce this risk, it is important for practitioners to pay attention to body posture when doing exercises. The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for injury to crossfit in terms of body posture. The research method used is a literature review compiled based on secondary data in the form of research journal reviews obtained from databases spread on the internet related to risk factors for injury to crossfit in terms of body posture. Research journals are obtained from Google Scholar, Sage Journals, and springer links. By using keywords namely crossfit injury, sport body posture. Results: One of the factors that influence the occurrence of crossfit injuries is body posture. From several studies say that many crossfit practitioners are injured due to technical errors that cause loading in some parts of the body. Conclusion: Based on some of the literature discussed, it can be concluded that the risk of injury to crossfit practitioners can occur due to body posture and poor movement techniques from crossfit practitioners.

Sleep Quality in CrossFit: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective Based on the relationship between sleep and sports performance, the present study aimed to evaluate sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness among adult CrossFit (CrossFit, LLC, Santa Cruz, CA, USA) practitioners and to verify possible associations with intestinal health. Methods This cross-sectional study involved males and females aged ≥ 18 years who had been regularly practicing CrossFit for at least 3 months. This survey used an online questionnaire addressing demographic and socioeconomic data, disease history, dietary characteristics, and questions regarding CrossFit. To assess intestinal health, the ROME IV Consensus Criteria and Bristol Scale were used. The Pittsburgh International Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-BR) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale were used to assess sleep quality. Results A total of 1,090 people (73.3% females) with a mean age of 31.2 ± 7.5 years were included. Considering the diagnosis of constipation, 36.9% of the patients were classified as constipated, especially females when compared with males ( p < 0.001). On the sleepiness scale, 22.4% of the volunteers showed excessive daytime sleepiness, which was also observed more frequently among females ( p = 0.013). In the PSQI-BR, 47.4% of participants were classified as having poor sleep quality (poor sleepers). The overall PSQI-BR score was 5.81 ± 2.85, with no difference between males and females ( p = 0.360). There was a positive correlation between the PSQI-BR global score and a diagnosis of constipation and excessive daytime sleepiness. There was a negative correlation between the stool type on the Bristol scale and the PSQI-BR global score. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that sleep quality was poor among CrossFit users, especially females, which can compromise their training performance.

Prevalence of UI in Crossfit praconers in South Brazil

Background: Crossfit is a high-impact sport popular among modern women, but it can be associated with urinary incontinence (UI). Aims: To study the prevalence of UI in Crossfit practitioners and the correlation with demographic, obstetric and overweight factors. Method: The prevalence of UI in Crossfit practitioners from a box in São Mateus do Sul (PR) was accessed through the ICIQ-SF, obstetric history, training frequency and anthropometric data were also collected. Results: Of the 43 women with a mean age of 33.7±9 years, 39.5% were overweight or obese; UI was more prevalent in women over 37 years of age and during physical activities. Most women considered that UI did not impact their lives in any way. Conclusion: UI is more prevalent in Crossfit practitioners than in the general population, but most of these women do not realize the negative impact of UI on their lives. Awareness measures for this population are urgent.

Comparisons of Shoulder Muscle Activity and Muscle Activity Ratio during Serratus Anterior Exercise between CrossFit Practitioners with/without Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Comparisons of Shoulder Muscle Activity and Muscle Activity Ratio during Serratus Anterior Exercise between CrossFit Practitioners with/without Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Evaluation of ankle mobility in crossfit practitioners with and without patellofemoral pain

One of the most common knee injuries related to CrossFit is patellofemoral dysfunction. This dysfunction is characterized by an ill-defined pain of insidious onset, located in the anterior retropatellar region and/or peripatellar knee. Its etiology is multifactorial and can lead to a change in patellar alignment or kinematics during knee flexion-extension movements. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a difference in ankle range of motion in Closed Kinetic Chain in CrossFit practitioners with and without anterior knee pain. This is a quantitative; cross-sectional; observational; analytical and comparative study and was carried out in CrossFit boxes in a city in the southwest of Bahia with the following stages: (1) recruitment of participants, invitation and referral as accepted or not; (2) selection of participants; (3) data collection that was carried out with each research participant; (4) data analysis and systematization of results. The Lunge Test was used to assess participants aged between 18 and 50. From the data collected, it was not possible to state that ankle mobility deficit in dorsiflexion is a risk factor for the development of patellofemoral dysfunction.

The Effects of 24-h Fasting on Exercise Performance and Metabolic Parameters in a Pilot Study of Female CrossFit Athletes.

Many studies have tested intermittent fasting (IF) in athletes, but its effects on female CrossFit athletes remain relatively unexplored in the existing literature. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of 24-h IF on the physical performance of female CrossFit practitioners. Eleven female CrossFit athletes (age: 30.91 ± 3.42, weight: 65.26 ± 7.55 kg, height: 1.66 ± 0.05 m) participated in the study. The study used a crossover design with fasting and eating conditions. Participants completed an exercise test, standing long jump, and handgrip strength assessment. Hydration status, heart rate, blood lactate, blood glucose, rates of perceived exertion, and hunger were measured. Results showed significant differences in blood lactate concentration (F = 5.435, p = 0.042, η2p = 0.352). Resting blood lactate concentration was significantly lower in the fasting trial than in the eating trial (p < 0.001), but post-exercise blood lactate concentrations were higher in the fasting trial than in the eating trial (p < 0.001). No differences were found in performance times (p > 0.05). In conclusion, this pilot study of females suggests that 24-h fasting does not impair exercise performance or negatively affect physiological parameters in CrossFit athletes.

CROSSFIT AND RECURRING JOINT INJURIES

CrossFit is an intense and multifaceted physical training modality that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. However, it has also raised concerns about the risk of injury, especially to the joints. Recurrent joint injuries are a relevant concern for CrossFit practitioners, as the modality involves high-intensity movements, such as weight lifting, jumping, running and exercises that place significant pressure on the joints. Joint injuries in CrossFit can occur due to a variety of reasons, including lack of proper technique, overload, lack of adequate warm-up, muscle fatigue, and repetitive movements. The joints most susceptible to injury include the shoulders, knees, hips and wrist joints. Joint injuries can range from mild to severe and can include strains, sprains, cartilage injuries and even ligament tears. To prevent recurring joint injuries during CrossFit practice, it is essential that practitioners receive adequate guidance from a qualified trainer. This includes learning the correct technique for each movement, not exceeding personal load limits, warming up thoroughly, and taking appropriate recovery measures after training. Furthermore, listening to your own body and respecting signs of fatigue and pain is essential to avoid injuries. The present study aims to identify recurrent injuries in CrossFit. The methodology used to prepare the study is qualitative research, through a bibliographic review. It is concluded that CrossFit is a challenging modality that can expose practitioners to the risk of recurrent joint injuries, especially when inadequate technique and lack of safety precautions are involved. With the correct guidance, adequate training and respect for personal limits, it is possible to minimize these risks and enjoy the benefits of CrossFit in a safer and healthier way.

CrossFit and "Cancel Culture": Probing Practitioners' Responses to the "Canceling" of Greg Glassman.

In this article, we explore the responses of crossfit practitioners to the 'canceling' of Greg Glassman in the aftermath of racist tweets and comments made in response to the killing of George Floyd. We draw on 50 interviews with crossfit practitioners to understand how they interpret and respond to the 'canceling' of Greg Glassman and the disavowal of CrossFit by prominent CrossFit athletes and organizations. We probe how athletes, regardless of levels of involvement, in the wake of Glassman's comments respond to the refiguring of the sporting community of CrossFit. A cancel culture continuum from affirmation to rejection emerged from the interview data that typified their views of cancel culture, Greg Glassman's removal from CrossFit HQ, and the current state of the sport. We conclude with a discussion of the phenomena of canceling or cancel culture and reflects on crossfit as a sport in light of the Glassman affair.

Prevalence of urinary incontinence in Crossfit and Running athletes

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent in athletes but needs further study. Aims: To compare the prevalence of UI among female CrossFit practitioners and female runners. Method: Quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study, composed of physically active nulliparous women, practitioners of CrossFit or running for at least 6 months, 3 times a week, evaluated by the ICIQ-SF. Results: Of the 223 volunteers, 62 were included. CrossFit Group (G1 n=31) and Running Group (G2 n=31). In G2, 19 (61.3%) had UI against 11 (35.5%) in G1, reporting UI on several occasions, mostly unrelated to sports practice. Conclusion: UI is more prevalent in female runners when compared to female CrossFit practitioners. Furthermore, it was noticed that, in general, urinary incontinence is more recurrent in high-impact sports, associated with a negative impact on the quality of life of these women.

Trunk muscles influence lower limb performance in crossfit athletes: A cross-sectional study.

Crossfit is a sport that combines cardio-respiratory and muscle endurance, strength, flexibility, muscle power, speed, coordination, agility and balance. However, there is no information in the literature regarding functional performance of the lower limbs and the endurance of core muscles in this population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation between trunk strength/endurance and lower limb function through lower limb symmetry and balance tests. Forty-one young adults aged 19-41years (26.3±5.4) participated, 15 sedentary and 26 cross fit practitioners for at least one year. The tests were as follows: Biering-Sørensen Test of trunk extensor endurance, Trunk Flexors Endurance Test at 60°, Side Plank Endurance Test, Lumbar Dynamometry, Single-Leg Hop Test and Star Excursion Balance Test. Although there were higher values, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the groups for lower limb symmetry and strength of trunk flexor muscles. For balance, strength and resistance variables of trunk extensor muscles, the values found were higher in crossfit practitioners than in sedentary subjects. There is a relationship between trunk muscle strength and endurance and lower limb balance. Moreover, cross fit athletes showed higher values of trunk muscle strength/endurance and lower limb balance compared to sedentary adults.

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.

Prevalence of dietary supplement consumption among CrossFit practitioners.

We aimed to verify the prevalence of dietary supplements among CrossFit practitioners (CFPs), considering gender and training status. Still, we aimed to determine the type, reasons, and associated factors of dietary supplement utilization among CFPs. This is a cross-sectional, exploratory, and descriptive study with the snowball sampling method. Data were collected through online questionnaires using the Google Forms® tool. We included CFPs aged 18-64years, from Aug 1, 2020, to Sept 31, 2020. The questionnaire contained questions to assess the prevalence, type, and reasons for supplement use; also, we assessed information about sociodemographic variables and the prevalence of the main chronic morbidities. To analyze aspects of eating behavior and sleep-related parameters, we applied the three-factor eating questionnaire (TFEQ)-R21 and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI), respectively. We assessed one hundred twelve (n = 112; 57 men; 55 women) CFPs (28.9 ± 7.64years old; body mass index (BMI), 25.5 ± 4.83kg/m2). Eighty-seven (50 men; 37 women; 28.2 ± 6.66years old; BMI, 25.4 ± 4.55kg/m2) reported using dietary supplements. Whey protein was the most used supplement (n = 70), followed by creatine (n = 54). Cognitive restraint (a dimension of eating behavior)score was higher in supplement users than in non-users (51.7 ± 18.6 vs. 42.6 ± 20.5; p = 0.040). Sleep-related parameters did not differ between supplement users and non-users. The most associated factors to supplement use were sex (being man; OR, 7.99; p = 0.007), sleep quality (poor; OR, 5.27; p = 0.045), CrossFit level (as prescribed (RX); OR, 4.51; p = 0.031), and cognitive restraint (OR, 1.03; p = 0.029). The CFPs, especially RX and Elite ones, showed a higher prevalence of supplement utilization. Anabolic-related supplements (i.e., whey protein and creatine) were the most used; moreover, several CFPs used supplements not supported by scientific evidence. Cognitive restraint scorewas higher in supplement users than in non-users. RX level, beingmen, and poor sleep quality were associated with supplement utilization. These data draw attention to the necessity of nutritional education for CrossFit coaches and athletes. Broader studies are necessary to confirm our findings.

Epidemiological Profile among Greek CrossFit Practitioners.

CrossFit (CF) is a popular and rapidly expanding training program in Greece and worldwide. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence on the risk of musculoskeletal injuries related to CF in the Greek population. A self-administered survey of 1224 Greek CF practitioners aged 18 to 59 was conducted and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The highest percentage of the participants (34%) practiced 5 days per week for 60 min (42.2%) and had 2 days per week of rest (41.7%). A total of 273 individuals (23%) participated in CF competitions and 948 (77%) did not. The results showed that the most common injuries were muscle injuries (51.3%), followed by tendinopathies (49.6%) and joint injuries (26.6%). The shoulders (56.6%; n = 303), knees (31.8%; n = 170), and lumbar spine (33.1%; n = 177) were the most commonly injured locations. The logistic regression model showed that participation in competitions (p = 0.001), rest per week (p = 0.01), duration of training per session (p = 0.001), and frequency of training per week (p = 0.03) were statistically significant factors for injury. Training level was not a statistically significant factor for injury (p = 0.43). As CF continues to gain popularity on a global scale and the number of athletes gradually increases, it is important to monitor the safety of practitioners. Clinicians should consider participation in competitions, rest, training duration, and frequency in order to make CF safer.

Injuries in CrossFit practioner: a cross-sectional study

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate epidemiological parameters associated with the onset of injuries in CrossFit practitioners. Methods: Cross-sectional study, with fifty-two subjects (28 ± 7 years,70 ±13 kg), regular practitioners of CrossFit, of intermediate level. The Rombaldi questionnaire was applied, related to the occurrence of injuries during physical activity. The Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Pearson's chi-square, and Fisher's exact test were used, using p < 0.05. Results: Our findings show that the prevalence of injury in cross-fitters is 38%, having an incidence rate of 3.7 per 1000 h of training. The most recurrent injury was stretching (41%). The most affected regions were the shoulder and lumbar (34%). The exercise model with the highest association with injury development was Olympic weightlifting (p = 0.004). Conclusion: The CrossFit practice showed a moderate prevalence of injuries, stretching the main type. The most affected regions were the shoulders and the lumbar. In relation to the most dangerous exercise model for the appearance of injuries, the Olympic weightlifting exercises stand out.

Phases of the menstrual cycle, contraceptives and the production of strength and fatigue in Crossfit practitioners

Background: Crossfit is a modality developed for the balanced training of strength, power and physical resistance, where the participation of women is increasing. The menstrual cycle (MC) causes hormonal variation, as do hormonal contraceptives. Aims: To evaluate and identify the production of muscle strength and the level of fatigue in different phases of the menstrual cycle in women who practice crossfit. Method: Selected healthy women, aged 18 to 40, who had a regular menstrual cycle or who use a continuous contraceptive method, such as a Mirena or Kyleena IUD or continuous OAC. Sample for convenience inside Crossfit boxes in the Vale dos Sinos region. Results: 10 women practitioners of Crossfit® participated. They performed isometric maximal muscle strength test on a digital dynamometer and a specific fatigue protocol, along with a visual analogue scale (VAS). Conclusion: There was no difference in the mean production of maximum isometric force or perception and level of muscle fatigue (p&lt;0.05) between participants in different phases of the menstrual cycle and contraceptive methods.

Prevalence of urinary incontinence and associated factors in crossfit practitioners: A cross-section study in Brazil

Prevalence of urinary incontinence and associated factors in crossfit practitioners: A cross-section study in Brazil

Summary of the evidence on responses and adaptations derived from crossfit training. A systematic review.

Objective: The present review aims to describe the state of the scientific evidence that exists about acute and chronic adaptations of CrossFit training. Method: This study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement (PRISMA). Original research articles published until 7 June 2020, were searched using five databases. A total of 994 original publications were found. A total of 62 papers matched the inclusion criteria. Results: Short-term effects: CrossFit training results in higher physiological demands than other training modalities. Different work of the day analysed by the studies have shown specific performance demand profiles. Besides psychological and mechanical acute effects have been found after CrossFit sessions. So, the negative moods perception appears to reduce after a CrossFit training session. Long-term effects: maximum oxygen consumption improves after CrossFit programmes, in which experienced athletes seem to achieve a higher gain than recreational athletes. Important changes in body composition have been reported by several studies included in this review. From a psychological perspective, CrossFit practitioners obtain a higher adherence to training than occurs in other training methodologies. Prospects and projects: Specific requirements of every work of the day should be studied for the correct administration to participants. Accumulative fatigue indexes should be explored as an overtraining syndrome in CrossFit athletes because several authors have reported psychological variables related to training addiction. Conclusion: CrossFit-based training drives several physiological changes that could be influenced by the athlete’s expertise. Moreover, this type of training requires a high physiological demand, which is perceived by athletes. Nevertheless, participants achieve adherence to CrossFit regardless of their objectives. In the case of high-performance athletes, addictive exercise behaviours have been identified.

Prevalence of urinary incontinence in female CrossFit athletes: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

Introduction and hypothesisStudies on the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among CrossFit practitioners are on the rise. This systematic review with meta-analysis was aimed at determining the prevalence of UI among CrossFit practitioners.MethodsA systematic review of the literature was performed by searching MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus through January 2021. The search strategy included the keywords CrossFit, urine incontinence, exercise, high impact and pelvic floor dysfunction. The inclusion criterion was any study with a sample of CrossFit practitioners and results separated from the other fitness modalities analysed. The subjects were women with no restriction of age, parity, experience or frequency of training. Quality assessment of the studies included was conducted using the Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine scale and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) adapted for cross-sectional studies.ResultsThirteen studies (6 comparative and 7 non-comparative) were included for the systematic review, all using a cross-sectional design. The level of evidence was 4, with their quality ranging from poor (n = 10) to fair (n = 3). A total of 4,823 women aged 18 to 71 were included, 91.0% participated in CrossFit, and 1,637 presented UI, which indicates a prevalence of 44.5%. Also, 55.3% and 40.7% presented mild or moderate UI respectively. Stress UI was the most common type reported (81.2%).ConclusionsThe factors that increased the likelihood of UI were age, body mass index and parity. Exercises based on jumps were commonly associated with urine leakage. CrossFit practitioners presented higher UI than control groups.