A content analysis of the high-intensity functional training literature: a look at the past and directions for the future

Abstract

Purpose. As a form of high-intensity functional training (HIFt), crossFit training has grown in popularity over the last decade. the aim of this analysis is to provide researchers with a tool to further guide scientific inquiry in this area of research. Methods. Even though systematic reviews and meta-analyses are preferred when analysing and synthesizing large numbers of scientific studies, the current literature on crossFit training is scarce. therefore, we used a content analysis approach to (1) review the literature on the topic; (2) synthesize the available research and examine the most popular issues, trends, and methodologies used; and (3) present an overall state of the literature and propose potential directions for future research. Results. A total of 104 studies related to HIFt and crossFit training were identified. these were published between 2007 and 2018 in 15 different countries, in 69 journals. the analysis referred to 6 main themes: (1) publication year, (2) country of research, (3) the peer-review journals publishing this type of research, (4) topical areas primarily studied, (5) research design, and (6) characteristics of individuals involved in this training modality. Conclusions. to our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a content analysis of the available literature on HIFt and crossFit training. the literature contributed significantly to the development of HIFt concepts, yet additional studies are needed to elucidate how HIFt/crossFit training may differ from more traditional training programs. Hopefully, our study will facilitate collaboration among scholars interested in HIFt modalities.

Psychological variables of CrossFit participants: a systematic review

“…Although there are few studies published to date, growing interest in the psychological consequences of CrossFit participation reflects that in the broader HIFT literature [70]. The number of studies in the present review reveals that the psychological variables have been more investigated more than other topics on CrossFit.…”

“…CrossFit is a high-intensity functional training (HIFT) [70] with short or no time for rest. Such practice implies large variations in effort levels and significantly interferes with the subjective perception of effort [36,39,40].…”

“…In a review analysing the literature on CrossFit, Claudino et al [13] found 11 studies on psychosocial behaviour, 7 on the risk of musculoskeletal injury, 4 on body composition, and 4 on aspects of life and health. The comprehensive characteristic of this work allowed the inclusion of 34 studies, while Feito, Brown and Olmos [70] and Gianzina and Kassotaki [25] found only 13 and 3 studies on psychological parameters, respectively.…”

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

“…However, CF is unique in that typical training session workouts mirror those that appear in competition. Moreover and consistent with its primary purpose [1,2], chronic participation in CF training has been documented to improve a variety of fitness parameters [19]. Though it might be assumed that CF training represents an ideal training strategy for developing the physiological characteristics present in successful competitors, such a conclusion would be premature based on the available data.…”

“…Evidence of CF training being more advantageous towards developing a variety of fitness outcomes in comparison to alternative training strategies (e.g., resistance training, high-intensity interval training) is equivocal [19][20][21][22][23][24][25]. This is likely because most comparative training studies have utilized untrained or novice (to CF) participants, which is problematic because they do not require a very specific or intense training stimulus to elicit adaptations compared to experienced trainees [26].…”