Information needs and information behavior in the sports training of people who practice CrossFit®

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores the information needs and information behaviors of individuals participating in the Body, Mind, Soul & Spirit training program, based on CrossFit® principles. Objective: To identify how they access, evaluate, and use information in their sports practice. Methodology: A mixed approach was used, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample consisted of seven CrossFit® practitioners and their coach. The study was conducted during the first half of 2024. A structured questionnaire with 22 questions was administered to identify the most frequently consulted information needs and sources. In addition, a semi-structured interview was conducted with the coach to supplement the data with a qualitative perspective. Results: The findings indicate that the participants’ main information needs to focus on the technical execution of movements, injury prevention strategies, and physical training techniques. The most widely used source of information is the coach, followed by social media and online videos. A marked preference for immediately accessible and visual sources was identified, while academic and bibliographic resources are rarely consulted. The findings obtained from the interview with the coach were consistent with the results obtained from the practitioners, especially regarding the importance of technique, injury prevention, and the search for applied information. Conclusions: The results highlight the need to strengthen information literacy in the field of sports, promoting strategies to evaluate the quality of the information consulted. It is recommended to implement training programs in the selection of reliable sources and to encourage the integration of digital platforms specialized in the dissemination of scientific information applied to sports.