As our data showed (see our official academic article on this, Fell & Geher, 2018, published in the Journal of Evolution and Health), the exercise experiences of these two gyms differed pretty dramatically. People who attended Gold’s were much more likely to use the stationary bicycle, stairmaster, and treadmill, for instance, while CrossFitters were more likely to use kettleballs and to engage in intensive interval training (designed as proxies for the kinds of physical activities that would be common under pre-Westernized nomadic conditions).
Do CrossFit and Gold’s Lead to Different Outcomes?
At the end of our analyses, we found two substantial and significant differences between the groups. CrossFitters scored higher than Gold’s Gym members in their competitive drive as well as in their motivation to connect with others in the exercise process. In short, CrossFitters are more competitive and more social than are members of Gold’s Gym.
