Gilbert JJ, Poveda LC, Pólit AM, León MP, Llanos FK, Benítes EE, Valdevila FJ

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 369-383
PDF size: 429.55 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Practice of the CrossFit has increased in Ecuador during the past few years given the rapid, short-term results achieved when compared with other conventional gym workout routines. Achieving such a physical build-up could induce the athlete to the abusive consumption of different ergogenic aids. Objective: To evaluate the risk of abuse of ergogenic supplementation in CrossFit Ecuadorian athletes. Study design: Cross-sectional, descriptive. Study serie: Thirty nine CrossFit athletes (Males: 84.2%; Ages between 21 – 30 years: 68.4%; Training days per week: Between 3 – 6 days: 65.8%; +12 months CrossFit practice: 89.5%) attending four training centres at the city of Guayaquil (Guayas province, Ecuador). Method: The Alcohol, Smoking, Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) originally designed for determining addiction to alcohol, tobacco and toxic drugs was conveniently modified to register the consumption of different ergogenic supplements and hence to document the risk of their abuse. The original ASSIST score system was kept (Scores < 27: No intensive intervention required vs. Scores ≥ 27: Intensive intervention required). Results: Seventy-eight-point-nine per cent of the participants referred a consumption of (at least one) of the listed ergogenic aids. Whey milk protein supplements, multivitamins and minerals preparations, and L-carnitine, branched-chain aminoacids and caffeine supplements were the most consumed aids. On the other hand, beta-hydroxy-methylbutyrate acid (HMB), yohimbine and -alanine supplements were the least consumed. All-aids ASSIST scores were < 27 (median: 2.0; interquartile range: 7.3). Conclusions: Current consumption of ergogenic aids in the practice of CrossFit does not justify the need for immediate psychotherapeutic intervention because of potential risk the athlete´s risk.