Weight training injury trends - A 20-year survey

BACKGROUND: Weight training is a popular activity, but injuries can be a consequence. Research has documented the types and venues of weight training injuries. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to identify weight lifting injury trends. DESIGN: A retrospective review of data from US emergency departments (EDs) that reported injuries from weight training and weight training equipment. The data include people who were treated for injuries from weight training or weight equipment from October 1, 1978, through December 31, 1998, and were identified by the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). RESULTS: NEISS identified 20,489 weight training-related injuries. An estimated 980,173 persons were treated in EDs for injuries related to weight training activity or equipment during the study period. The number of ED-treated injuries has increased 35% since 1978. About one of four injuries occurred from the misuse or abuse of weight training equipment. CONCLUSION: Cautionary messages should be aimed at young children, older adults, and users of home gyms. Those who train with weights should be instructed in the proper use of weight equipment.