Objective: To compare the effect of CrossFit and concurrent aerobic + resistance training (CT) on circulating myonectin levels, insulin resistance index, and physical performance in young women.
Materials and methods: Thirty healthy women were randomly assigned to CrossFit (n = 16) and CT (n = 14) groups, exercising three sessions per week for eight weeks. Serum myonectin levels, insulin resistance index, body composition, and performance variables were evaluated before and after the intervention period.
Results: Neither the CrossFit nor the CT group improved in myonectin levels and insulin resistance index. While, fat percentage, muscle mass, upper-limb strength, VO2max, HR at rest, lower body mean power output, and upper body peak power output improved more after CrossFit than the CT.
Conclusion: It seems that CrossFit exercises by targeting multiple fitness components in one exercise session may allow participants to perform more activity in less time.
Keywords: CrossFit; Myonectin; body composition; concurrent training; performance.