1.    Introduction
CrossFit is an emerging physical fitness program based on constantly varied, high-intensity multi-joint functional movements (1). CrossFit exercises consist of different sports modalities, including stretching, rope climbing, burpees, and more. Metabolic preparation involves cardiovascular exercises such as running or jumping over a rope, while weightlifting includes both Olympic movements (snatch, clean and jerk) (4) and powerlifting movements (squat, bench press, and deadlift) (5). The shoulder, spine, and knee are among the body parts most prone to injury during CrossFit workouts. Shoulder injuries are commonly experienced by gymnasts (7), weightlifters, and powerlifters (8). Movements like pull-ups or rope climbing place significant demands on shoulder range of motion and stability, while exercises such as bench press and squats can force the shoulder into extreme flexion and abduction (9).
Field-screening tools have become increasingly popular in clinical practice for identifying defects associated with an elevated risk of injury. For injury prevention and performance planning purposes, it's crucial to determine whether there are differences in FMS, Y-balance test, Davis, and Dash scores between male and female CrossFit practitioners to establish population-specific performance benchmarks and injury risk thresholds. Additionally, examining the correlation between range of motion, Y balance test results, and FMS, Davis, and Dash scores among CrossFit athletes may offer valuable insights into injury prevention strategies. Therefore, this study aims to compare upper limb performance between male and female CrossFit participants and its association with FMS, Davis, and Dash test outcomes.
2.    Methods
In this descriptive-comparative study, the statistical population included CrossFit men and women in Mashhad city. Using an available sampling method and after obtaining informed consent, 42 subjects were selected (23 men, 19 women) based on predetermined criteria. All subjects provided consent to participate in the research. In the initial session, participants received brief explanations to familiarize themselves with the testing process and study objectives. Each subject was then provided with necessary instructions and explanations related to the execution of each movement pattern before performing the test once as a trial.
3.    Results
The results of the correlation coefficient test are shown in Table 1.

4.    Conclusion
The results of the present study indicate significant positive correlations among men between the range of motion of external and internal rotation and the Y balance test scores of both the right and left hand with the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and the Davis test. Similarly, among women, there are significant positive correlations between the range of motion of external and internal rotation and the Y balance test scores of both the right and left hand with the FMS test. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the range of motion of internal rotation and the Y balance test score of the left hand with the Davis test. Additionally, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of the range of motion of external rotation, as well as the Davis and Dash test scores. Weightlifting movements in CrossFit and other sports frequently increase the susceptibility of athletes to upper limb injuries, particularly shoulder and wrist injuries (6). CrossFit exercises involve technically complex movements (26), necessitating the neuromuscular system's capacity to generate a sequence of high-intensity muscle contractions (27). Moreover, CrossFit athletes require adequate upper limb flexibility to perform movements that demand a broad range of motion (28-30).
When it comes to muscle injuries in CrossFit, men tend to sustain injuries in different muscle groups compared to women; specifically, male injuries (affecting three muscle areas) are less common than those experienced by women (eight injury areas). The majority of injuries are typically associated with upper limb muscles involving the shoulder region, such as the deltoid, trapezius, and upper back muscles (33). Hak et al.'s findings (37) suggest that the high incidence of lumbar spine injuries could be attributed to the use of high intensity, high repetitions, and heavy weights in exercises that demand proper form. Feito et al. (33) found no disparity in injury rates between genders, distinguishing between individuals who were less and more engaged in exercise. Kramer et al.'s research revealed a positive and significant correlation between the combined Functional Movement Screen (FMS) score and the left scores of the Y balance test, as well as the combined scores of the Y balance test, in both genders. They proposed that this association between FMS composite scores and the Y balance test might stem from the similar components utilized in each screening tool, which evaluate range of motion, mobility, and limb stability. The dynamic balance assessed in the Y balance test mirrors the activities tested in the FMS, including inline lunge, rotational stability, and hurdle step. Furthermore, performing the movements in the FMS and the Y balance test requires similar underlying structures to maintain single-leg balance, musculoskeletal strength, and trunk stability (38). Additionally, they noted that while there were no significant differences between genders in the right, left, or composite Y balance test scores, women exhibited greater proficiency. Moreover, there was a significant difference in FMS scores between genders, with women outperforming men (38). Chimera et al.'s study found no gender differences in athletes regarding the Y balance test composite score (39). Similarly, a study conducted among basketball athletes and recreational participants concluded that there were no gender disparities (40). According to the results, it seems that FMS and Davis tests can be used to predict the probability of injury in male and female crossfit athletes.

Ethical Considerations
Compliance with ethical guidelines
Ethical considerations were fully observed in this article. Participants were given the option to withdraw from the study if they wished. Additionally, all participants were made aware of the research process, and their information was kept confidential.
Funding
This research did not receive any grants from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or non-profit sectors.
Authors' contributions
All authors participated in the design, implementation, and writing of all parts of this research.
Conflicts of interest
The authors declared no conflict of interest.