Amy West | CrossFit and Injury: What Every Coach Needs to Know

Few debates in the fitness world are more contentious or polarizing than the relationship between CrossFit and injury. In this episode, sports medicine physician Amy West joins to unpack the nuances of this topic. Together, we tackle the reality of injury rates, her experiences on the medical front lines at top-tier competitions, and the evolution of CrossFit from a fringe sport to mainstream fitness. 

We dive into the importance of functional movement and the role of coaches in customizing workouts, ensuring that participants of all ages and abilities can safely reap the benefits of this training methodology, from adaptive athletes to fitness newbies. We also highlight the pros and cons of CrossFit's training style, from gymnastics to endurance and everything in between.

Lastly, the conversation transitions into the nature of CrossFit in establishing lasting healthy habits and fostering a sense of belonging. Amy also offers advice for anyone considering a leap into CrossFit or simply looking to make intentional physical activity part of their daily life.

Time Stamps:

[2:21] A strength coach's perspective on CrossFit

[7:18] What does research show about injury rates in CrossFit?

[16:50] Is CrossFit less accessible than other strength sports?

[25:47] The power of community in CrossFit

[32:17] Properly scaling movements in CrossFit workouts

[39:38] Strengths of the CrossFit training methodology

[43:46] Advice for getting started with CrossFit

Dr. Amy West is a specialist in sports medicine and rehabilitation. She is a graduate of Harvard Medical School, completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Harvard-Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, and her fellowship in Sports Medicine at Maine Medical Center.

Dr. West's focuses include non-operative sports medicine, musculoskeletal ultrasound, peripheral joint injections, electromyography (EMG), and concussion management. Her clinical and research interests include the female athlete, adaptive sports, lifestyle medicine, transgender athletes, and nutrition. She is active in the CrossFit community, serving on the CrossFit Games Medical Team and participating in various CrossFit functions and outreach events.

To follow Amy, you can find her on Instagram and Twitter.

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