Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Sport Behavior

Department

Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Department

ISSN

0162-7341

Volume

39

Issue

3

First Page

239

Last Page

254

Publication Date

9-1-2016

Abstract

CrossFit can be described as a relatively new fitness training method that is based on a variety of high-intensity weight training, body weight movements, and cardiovascular exercise. Given the recent rise in CrossFit establishments, the purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between basic need satisfaction (autonomy, relatedness, competence), behavioral regulation toward CrossFit, and actual participation behaviors within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. CrossFit participants (N = 206; Mage = 37.6 years), majority Caucasian (76%), females (58%), who reported attending three (n = 91; 44.2%) and five (n = 78; 37.9%) CrossFit sessions per week completed online surveys about need satisfaction and CrossFit self-regulation. Participants who attended CrossFit more frequently had significantly higher levels of basic need satisfaction across all three needs. Differences existed also in behavioral regulation across frequency of attendance and age. Together, the three basic needs explained 38.8% of the variance in autonomous regulation, while explaining 5.7% of the variance in controlled regulation toward CrossFit. This study provided empirical support for previous theoretical connections between basic psychological need satisfaction and self-determined regulation toward exercise. Findings are intended to help inform CrossFit "box" directors and those of other group fitness activities looking for increased participant recruitment and retention.

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