EFFECTS OF CROSSFIT TRAINING ON BODY FUNCTION AND MOVEMENT PERFORMANCE OF AEROBIC ATHLETES

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Physical fitness is the athletic ability to perform physical activities safely, avoiding the risk of injuries or performance-related complications on the field. CrossFit has been an effective training method for its natural movements and integration of aerobic and anaerobic exercises. It is believed that these characteristics may benefit the physical fitness of aerobic gym athletes. Objective: Evaluate the effects of CrossFit training on the physical fitness of aerobic gymnastics athletes. Methods: A controlled experimental study involving 24 aerobic gymnastics athletes was run for 9 weeks. The athletes were divided into an experimental group with CrossFit-based training, the control group received no additional training intervention. The indices of physical fitness, motor function, and movement performance were analyzed before and after the intervention. The results of the statistical analyses were discussed. Results: Considerable variation was obtained in fitness indices in distinct groups of muscle activities: in abdominal crunches from 37.66±6.12 to 50.11±3.01; medical ball lateral throw from 8.04±1.00 to 10.80±2.21; lateral bridge from 72.60±11.40 to 113.69±14.47; the flexion in sitting position from 22.52±2.51 to 26.46±1.33; and rope climbing from 32.32±7.28 to 25.97±7.08. In functional terms, the movement response time to music was optimized from 15.38±0.36 to 13.08±0.21; and the movement performance score was increased from 72.56±2.25 to 80.91±1.02. There were no significant changes in the control group. Conclusion: CrossFit training was shown to improve the physical conditioning of aerobic gym athletes and the functional movement performance of its practitioners. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.