<p>Here&rsquo;s how to see great results fast, without getting injured.</p>

- Yanar Alkayat

CrossFit has gone from a little-known workout in 2007 to an international phenomenon with over 13,000 affiliates worldwide and a cult-like following to boot. The training method combines functional moves such as squats with gymnastic skills and Olympic weightlifting with interval-style workout methods and an energetic, infectious vibe that has people crawling back for more. CrossFit regulars will tell you how addictive the workout is. You’ll never do the same workout twice, so you’ll be constantly challenging your body.

YOU’RE CONSTANTLY CHALLENGING YOUR BODY

But CrossFit isn’t without its downside. Reports about safety issues means it’s having to work hard to shake off rumors of high injury rates. One study, published in the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine found 75 out of 386 participants had sustained an injury (just under 20 per cent). Injuries varied but shoulder, lower back and knee injuries were the most common. Crucially, it also concluded injury rate was significantly decreased with trainer involvement. Another study concluded injury rates are lower than competitive contact sports but similar to power-lifting and gymnastics. David Marshall, owner of Royal Docks CrossFit in London (royaldocksCrossFit.com) and ex-professional rugby player and coach, says injury rates are ‘more to do with varied levels, styles and backgrounds of coaching’. Tom Cresswell, sports therapist and strength and conditioning coach at MatchFit Athletics (matchfit.org) agrees. ‘Well-desi

This story is from the July 2016 edition of Health & Fitness.

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