Comparing CrossFit And Traditional Weightlifting: Which Workout Yields The Best Result?

Some say CrossFit is better than weightlifting, while others say it's otherwise. This brings everyone down to this one controversial question - which workout do you think gives the best result?

A study, which was published in the Journal of Exercise Physiology, gathered 26 men with the age of 20 to 32 years old and had at least 1 year of training experience. Half of them were weightlifters trained in accordance with the American College of Sports Medicine, while the other half were CrossFitters trained under a certified trainer within the certified box.

The same fitness test - pull ups, shuttle run and countermovement jump - were given to both weightlifters and CrossFitters. Results revealed that CrossFitters showed greater endurance and jumping capacities, while weightlifters demonstrated strength in upper bodies, Men's Fitness learned.

Another difference noted between weightlifters and CrossFitters following the study was the VO2 max or an individual's quantifier in his or her body's ability to consume oxygen. With the use of American College of Sports Medicine guideline, results revealed that CrossFitters reigned over weightlifters.

One must remember that CrossFit workouts are intense. The exercises entail explosive power, energy and repetition.

CrossFit workouts may burn calories faster but it can also be exhausting. Pushing one's self too hard to complete the exercise may place the individual at risk for injury.

Traditional weightlifting, on the other hand, can give you enough time to work on your pace. This workout is ideal if the individual is just recovering from injury or just starting to work with weights, according to Livestrong.

So, which workout yields better result? The answer depends on the individual's goals. It has been recommended by the experts that one must consult their doctors first especially if he or she has an existing medical condition.

An individual must know what he or she is trying to improve. Instructors have recommended that for explosive and dynamic strength, one can try traditional weightlifting or isolation workouts.

If an individual wants to strive in improving his or her aerobic capacity and body composition, he or she can opt for CrossFit. One must focus on his or her goal and choose whether CrossFit or traditional weightlifting can help him or her in successfully achieving it.