Examination of Musculoskeletal System Problems and Affecting Factors in CrossFit Sports

CrossFit was developed by Greg Glassman in 1995 to increase core strength and general muscle strength and conditioning. It has grown in popularity around the world since it was first developed. Today, more than 15,000 CrossFit gyms operate around the world. CrossFit; It is a multimodal exercise training performed at high intensity, covering many functional movement models in a single exercise session. CrossFit is done with high-intensity, functional movements called "Workout of the Day" (GA). In workouts, exercises are performed quickly, with little or no rest between reps and sets. CrossFit training, which focuses on constantly changing functional movements; olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, sprint, plyometric, calisthenics, gymnastics and rope climbing is a mix of exercise models that are difficult to categorize. Each GA has its own special name and is performed with a certain combination of exercises. Although the nature of each session varies between affiliates, each session is typically 1 hour and includes a specific work of warm-up, strength or skill technique. Although GAs are performed in groups, the warm-up or cool-down times may differ according to the needs of the individuals.

Ángel Rodríguez et al. In their study on the epidemiology of injury and risk factors in CrossFit in 2020, they reported that the risk of injury in these sports modalities is similar when compared to other weightlifting and powerlifting, but challenging training programs increase the risk, especially if not performed in the right position. They emphasized that excess exercise volume and number of training sessions in CrossFit can cause early fatigue, higher effort perception, and a risky movement practice.

Mehrab et al. In another study conducted in 2017, they examined the injury incidence of Dutch CrossFit athletes and the injury incidence of athletes participating in CrossFit was 56.1% and the most injured body parts were 28.7% shoulder, 15.8% waist and 8.3% knee. have reported. The most common exercises causing injury were squat 22.0% and deadlift 18.0%. It has been stated that advanced athletes are more seriously injured than beginner athletes, and people with 3 years of CrossFit experience are 3.3 times more likely to be injured than those with 2 years or less experience. According to the review of 2020, it is reported that tendinopathies, joint injuries and muscle injuries are seen most frequently in Crossfit.

Given the growing popularity of CrossFit, avoiding potential risks from poor practice and proper training are essential for athletes. Analysis of injury patterns is an essential part of this process, enabling athletes, coaches, and health professionals to become better informed about inappropriate habits that harm physical integrity and how it can be improved. When we look at the literature, there are few studies that determine the physical risk factors of CrossFit athletes, and there is no study that examines the relationship between musculoskeletal injuries and risk factors. Our study will be the first study to determine the relationship between musculoskeletal system problems and physical risk factors of CrossFit athletes in the TRNC. The risk factors that emerged as a result of the study will be shared with the athletes, and the prevention of possible future injuries and the improvement of public health will be tried.

Hypotheses: