Injuries at the 2005 World Championships in Rock Climbing

ObjectiveTo evaluate the injury risk associated with indoor rock climbing competition.MethodsAll injuries reported to medical personnel at the 2005 World Championships in Rock Climbing were recorded and analyzed.ResultsFour hundred forty-three climbers (273 men, 170 women) from 55 countries participated in 3 separate disciplines totaling 520 climbing days. Only 4 of 18 acute medical problems that were treated were significant injuries, resulting in an injury rate of 3.1 per 1000 hours.ConclusionsIndoor rock climbing competition has a low injury risk and a very good safety profile.