CrossFit remains to be one of the most popular and most controversial fitness trends. Due to the competitive nature and intense feelings of belonging to a community, CrossFit is recognized as one of the fastest growing modes of high-intensity training. It can also be considered an option for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and consequently, HIIT has become one of the top fitness trends in the last 5 years (Amadio et al., 2018). Scientific data surrounding CrossFit is sparse, and a research team worked to analyze the findings of scientific literature on CrossFit in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The positive outcomes of CrossFit go beyond the sole scientific benefits of exercise, however, the scientific benefits are overwhelmingly positive. CrossFit fitness domains such as cardiovascular/respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, and power are often used as interventions for performance in CrossFit exercise design. Additional domains such as speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy, can be better incorporated into an average CrossFit exercise program. CrossFit heavily impacts body composition in parameters such as body mass index, relative body fat, fat mass, lean body mass, and waist circumference (Amadio et al., 2018).

Physical health benefits of CrossFit:
Physical performance and overall body composition
Cardiovascular health
Insulin sensitivity
Blood pressure
Lipid profile
Bone development
Improved sleeping patterns
Combat specific aging factors in skeletal muscle
Type 2 diabetes
Improved cognitive abilities
Self-esteem

Benefits of CrossFit That Go Beyond Exercise: 3 benefits of CrossFitIn the scientific literature, Amadio et al. (2018) found:

  • Higher levels of a sense of community between CrossFit friends, peers, and trainers
  • Higher levels of satisfaction surrounding a physical activity
  • High levels of motivation to participate in exercise and physical activity as well as motivation to return to

Amadio et al. (2018) assessed the motivation for physical exercise in their meta-analysis. The groups used for comparison were CrossFit, resistance exercise, alone, and individuals who train with a personal trainer. In the CrossFit group, enjoyment, challenge, and affiliation were identified as factors for motivation and adherence more than all other training groups. The sense of enjoyment and challenge are often used as descriptors for sports practice within a team setting.

In addition to the research provided by Amadio et al. (2018), research shows that the supportive group environment not only contributes to a sense of community but also serves as the greatest tool for exercise adherence. Individuals that find self-motivation to be a struggle can benefit from the characteristics of CrossFit.

Individuals that use CrossFit as their exercise program describe CrossFit as a lifestyle choice. This is due to the fact that CrossFit embeds ideas of holistic nutrition, in which daily diet challenges inspire participants to develop healthy eating habits, as well as personal development. Personal development is embedded into the CrossFit training program, as coaches and trainers are motivating and inspiring members of the community that offer tips and guidelines for healthy living.