Introduction: CrossFit is one of the latest forms of exercise, which combines gymnastic elements, powerlifting, Olympic heavy lifting and aerobic exercises. This form of exercise is based on three basic principles; diversity, high intensity and functional motion. Despite its many beneficial physiological impacts, it is often regarded as having a negative health impact, probably due to the high intensity of the workouts. The risk factors behind CrossFit-related injuries are still mainly undiscovered. Purpose: The purpose of the diploma thesis is to present the incidence and characteristics of CrossFit-related musculoskeletal injuries. Our goal is to discover which demographic and exercise parameters can be recognised as risk factors regarding musculoskeletal injuries in CrossFit. Methods: The diploma thesis was written using the literature review method. The literature search was done in the PubMed database, searching for articles in English published between 2013 and 2023. The used search terms included in titles and abstracts were CrossFit AND injury. Results: The literature review includes 8 studies, all of which researched the incidence of CrossFit-related musculoskeletal injuries. The incidence of musculoskeletal injuries ranged between 19.4% and 56.6%; the incidence rate was between 2.3 and 18.9 injuries/1000 hours of exercise. The most common injuries were those of the shoulder joint, lower back and knee joint. The risk factors recognised for CrossFit-related musculoskeletal injuries were male gender, higher body weight and height, past injuries, beginners training for a shorter period of time, competing in CrossFit, a longer training period, a higher frequency of training, inadequate supervision by a trained coach and continuing with exercising despite delayed-onset muscle soreness. Discussion and conclusion: The incidence and incidence rate of CrossFit-related musculoskeletal injuries can be compared to other similar sports activities, for example powerlifting, Olympic heavy lifting, gymnastics, and track and field. By considering the scientifically proven risk factors, especially by exercising under professional supervision and individually modifying the workouts, we can reduce the incidence of CrossFit-related musculoskeletal injuries.
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