Motivos de abandono da prática de CrossFit®

Abstract

Although physical exercise is widely recognized for its benefits to physical and mental health, many people still remain sedentary. CrossFit® can help satisfy psychological needs and increase motivation in practitioners. However, despite these benefits, abandonment of the practice is a common reality.This study aimed to investigate the reasons that lead to abandonment of the practice of CrossFit®. A total of 104 former CrossFit® practitioners of both sexes were evaluated, 63 women and 41 men, who practiced the modality for at least one month and abandoned it no more than two years ago. Participants were recruited via social networks and at CrossFit® practice locations. They answered an online questionnaire with closed questions about age, sex, place of residence, time of practice and time since quitting, in addition to 16 specific questions about the reasons for quitting and an open question to deepen the reasons for quitting. Two statistical tests were used for descriptive analyses: the Chi-Square test with Monte Carlo simulation, to assess the association between sex and reasons for quitting, and Spearman's correlation, to analyze the relationship between age, time of practice and reasons for quitting. Qualitative responses were analyzed using the content analysis method. The analysis showed that there is no significant association between sex, age and reasons for quitting CrossFit®, but time of practice is relevant. More experienced practitioners tend to disagree with reasons such as lack of pleasure or lack of results. It is concluded that the reasons for quitting CrossFit® correspond mainly to a combination of personal, social and structural factors. Among the most relevant factors identified are lack of time, incompatible schedules, changes in routine, injuries, high costs, difficulties in executing movements and personal issues.