Purpose:
As a form of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), CrossFit training has grown in popularity over the last decade. The aim of this analysis is to provide researchers with a tool to further guide scientific inquiry in this area of research.

Methods:
Even though systematic reviews and meta-analyses are preferred when analysing and synthesizing large numbers of scientific studies, the current literature on CrossFit training is scarce. Therefore, we used a content analysis approach to (1) review the literature on the topic; (2) synthesize the available research and examine the most popular issues, trends, and methodologies used; and (3) present an overall state of the literature and propose potential directions for future research.

Results:
A total of 104 studies related to HIFT and CrossFit training were identified. These were published between 2007 and 2018 in 15 different countries, in 69 journals. The analysis referred to 6 main themes: (1) publication year, (2) country of research, (3) the peer-review journals publishing this type of research, (4) topical areas primarily studied, (5) research design, and (6) characteristics of individuals involved in this training modality.

Conclusions:
To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a content analysis of the available literature on HIFT and CrossFit training. The literature contributed significantly to the development of HIFT concepts, yet additional studies are needed to elucidate how HIFT/CrossFit training may differ from more traditional training programs. Hopefully, our study will facilitate collaboration among scholars interested in HIFT modalities.