Currently submitted to: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: May 11, 2026
Open Peer Review Period: May 12, 2026 - Jul 7, 2026
(currently open for review)
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
A Prospective Cohort Study Protocol for Investigating the Predictive Value of Movement Screening Tests for Musculoskeletal Injuries in CrossFit Athletes
ABSTRACT
Background:
CrossFit is a popular high intensity training modality combining weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardiovascular conditioning. Despite its benefits, concerns remain regarding musculoskeletal injury risk. Movement screening tests such as the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA), Y Balance Test (YBT), and Biering Sorensen Test have been proposed to evaluate mobility, stability, and motor control. However, their predictive validity in CrossFit athletes is not well established.
Objective:
This protocol describes a prospective cohort study designed to investigate the screening (predictive) value of movement and motor control screening test scores and their relationship with musculoskeletal injuries in CrossFit athletes
Methods:
A minimum of 142 male and female CrossFit athletes aged 18–45 years with at least six months of training experience will be recruited from Tehran training centers based on sample size calculation (G*Power, effect size = 0.25, power = 0.80, alpha = 0.05, plus 20% attrition). Baseline assessments will include standardized movement screening tests (FMS, SFMA, YBT, Biering Sorensen). The primary outcome is the occurrence of any new CrossFit related musculoskeletal injury during six months of prospective follow up, defined as any complaint leading to training modification, medical consultation, or absence from training for ≥24 hours. Injuries will be verified through bi weekly follow up calls and coach/medical staff communication. Statistical analysis: Logistic regression, Cox proportional hazards models, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and ROC curve analysis will be used to evaluate the predictive utility of screening scores.
Results:
This study will clarify whether movement screening scores can serve as reliable predictors of injury risk in CrossFit athletes
Conclusions:
This protocol will provide evidence on the role of movement screening tests in predicting musculoskeletal injuries among CrossFit athletes, with implications for injury prevention and athlete safety. Clinical Trial: NA
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