A new study published in PLoS One examined anthropometric, hormonal and physiological differences between advanced (ADV) and recreational (REC) CrossFit (CF)-trained participants, in comparison with physically-active controls (CON).

In this study, advanced (ADV; n = 8, 27.8 ± 4.2 years, 170 ± 11 cm, 79.8 ± 13.3 kg) and recreational (REC; n = 8, 33.5 ± 8.1 years, 172 ± 14 cm, 76.3 ± 19.5 kg) CF-trained participants were distinguished by their past competitive success. REC and the physically-active controls (CON; n = 7, 27.5 ± 6.7 years, 171 ± 14 cm, 74.5 ± 14.3 kg) were resistance-trained for more than two years and exercised for 3-5 days every week over the past year; CON utilized traditional resistance and cardiovascular exercise. All participants provided a fasted, resting blood sample and completed assessments of resting metabolic rate, body composition, muscle morphology, isometric mid-thigh pull strength, peak aerobic capacity and a 3-minute maximal cycle ergometer sprint across two separate occasions (separated by 3-7 days). Blood samples were analyzed for testosterone, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor-1.

The finding revealed that relative to REC and CON, ADV possessed a lower body fat percentage and a greater bone and non-bone lean mass; muscle morphology characteristics; isometric strength characteristics; peak aerobic capacity; and 3-minute cycling performance. Whereas, no differences were noted between REC and CON or between all groups, for resting metabolic rate or hormone concentrations.

The findings indicated that ADV CF-trained participants possessed several physiological advantages over REC and CON. Meanwhile, similar physiological characteristics were present in individuals who had been regularly participating in either CF-training or resistance and cardiovascular training over a one year period.

Source: PLoS One. 2020 Apr 7;15(4):e0223548. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223548.