High Intensity Functional Training in Hybrid Competitions: A Scoping Review of Performance Models and Physiological...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Performance Optimization

Background:

• Hybrid competitions like CrossFit and Hyrox are increasing in popularity.
• A comprehensive understanding of High-Intensity Functional Training's (HIFT) physiological effects is needed.
• HIFT integrates diverse physical demands relevant to hybrid events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the scientific literature on HIFT.
• To identify the physiological and psychobiological factors HIFT enhances.
• To focus on performance determinants within hybrid competition contexts.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed, adhering to Arksey and O'Malley and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Systematic literature searches were conducted across Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases.
• Thirty-nine relevant studies published between 2015 and 2025 were included in the analysis.

Main Results:

• HIFT demonstrably improves aerobic capacity (VO2max increases of 8-15%), muscular strength (10-20% gains), anaerobic power, and fatigue tolerance.
• Significant enhancements were observed in local muscular endurance, power output, and recovery capacity.
• Benefits were more pronounced in trained individuals, particularly those with higher resistance training volumes. Psychobiological factors like perceived exertion and cognitive control were also positively influenced.

Conclusions:

• High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) effectively enhances critical physical attributes essential for hybrid athletic events.
• Findings support HIFT as a core training methodology for athletes competing in demanding, multi-domain fitness settings.
• The study highlights HIFT's broad applicability without specific attribution to any single competitive format.