FORT LEE, Va. (Aug. 6, 2015) -- Since its 2000 start, CrossFit has made huge waves in the fitness industry. It has grown to more than 3,500 gyms and a yearly competition sponsored by Reebok. A research literature review with the keyword "CrossFit" reveals 152 peer-reviewed articles in various medical journals. The two questions to address are, is it effective and is it safe?
The main benefit of CrossFit is the high-intensity physical training that is proven to increase strength and endurance after a minimal 4-week training program. Crossfitters have known this for years. However, military members who continue to perform these exercises in conjunction with normal "PRT" training could end up with overuse injuries. Start slowly when beginning any additional physical fitness program.
With such profound changes in fitness comes an increased possibility of injury. So far, only one online research study has approached this and found the rate of injury to be 3.1 injuries per 1,000 hours of training. This is no different than other gym-based training injury rates. The body part with the highest injury was found in the shoulder. The author states that performing exercises properly might decrease injuries and illustrates correct versus incorrect form.
All sports have specific gear and techniques that should be considered when performing the task. In baseball, for example, a player wouldn't try to hit the ball with the grip part of the bat. So, if anyone decides they want to attempt CrossFit, it's recommended having weightlifting supervision by a certified professional for eight weeks or until the lifting form is perfect to help minimize injury.
The Kenner Army Health Clinic physical therapy department is here to help with functional movements, injury prevention and rehabilitation. If individuals decide to start an additional physical training program and are injured, see the staff here sooner than later.
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