Influence of CrossFit Training on the Mental Condition and Quality of Life of Young People

Abstract

Topicality. Despite significant achievements and a detailed study of the biological, social and behavioral aspects and the importance of motor activity for a person's mental health, open to consideration and discussion remains the question of understanding the mechanisms of the influence of physical activity on the mental health of children and adolescents. The purpose was to evaluate the impact of CrossFit training on the mental status and indicators of life quality of adolescents. Methods. The study involved 14 people aged 14–16 years. CrossFit training lasted 1 hour 3 times a week for two months. The training included multifunctional complex exercises, mainly of strength orientation, which participants performed in the aerobic mode in a zone of high intensity, duration of no more than 20 minutes. The PedsQL™ questionnaire (Generic Core, Ukrainian version for respondents aged 13–18 years) was used to assess the quality of life. Participants perception about themselves (self-concept) was studied by the assessment of the physical self- concept, mood, sports and academic competencies. Dependent nonparametric samples were compared using the Wilcoxon Z-criterion. Results. After participating in the 8-week program, there was an increase (p<0,01) of the level of physical preparedness by the results of the performance of exercise complexes. The average values of all indicators of the self- concept increased after participating in the program. Positive dynamics was observed for indicators «Mood» (p=0,09), «Sports Competence» (p=0,09), «Academic Competence» (p=0,10). At the end of the program, the quality of life indicators increased by 4–10 points and exceeded the value of 75 points. Changes were observed to the indicators of the Physical Functioning Scale (10 %, p=0,1), Emotional Functioning Scale (14 %, p=0,09) and School Functioning Scale (15 %, p=0,03). Conclusions. Simultaneously with raising in the level of physical preparedness, 8-week CrossFit program was useful for increasing of self-confidence and improving mood. The participants have observed an increase in the quality of life by 10–15 %.