Physiological Profile and Dietary Habits of Recreational Adults Participating in Contemporary Gym-Based Exercise Modalities
Abstract
Physical exercise is a major determinant of health and functional capacity, yet direct com-parisons among contemporary gym-based exercise modalities remain limited. This cross-sectional study compared the physiological and nutritional profile of 148 healthy recreational adults (72 men and 76 women; aged 18–45 years) engaged in mixed aero-bic-resistance training (n = 52), Pilates (n = 46), or CrossFit (n = 50). Participants under-went cardiopulmonary exercise testing to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VAT), and metabolic equivalents (METs), alongside body composition analysis, handgrip strength assessment, flexibility testing, and question-naire-based evaluation of dietary habits and supplement use. CrossFit and mixed training were associated with higher VO₂max and functional capacity than Pilates, whereas Pilates demonstrated higher VAT expressed as a percentage of VO₂max. Mixed training and CrossFit also showed more favorable body composition profiles, while mixed training demonstrated superior handgrip strength, particularly in men. Flexibility did not differ significantly among exercise modalities. Mediterranean diet adherence differed signifi-cantly among men, while protein supplements and creatine were among the most fre-quently reported supplements. Overall, exercise modality was associated with distinct physiological and nutritional characteristics, with CrossFit and mixed training showing greater cardiorespiratory and body…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 148 participants or records.
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