Causes of Accidents in Terrain Parks: An Exploratory Factor Analysis of Recreational Freestylers’ Views

ObjectiveThis study examines ski and snowboard terrain park users’ views on aspects associated with accidents by identifying and assessing variables that may influence the occurrence of accidents and the resulting injuries.MethodsThe research was conducted in a major resort in the Spanish Pyrenees, using information gathered from freestyle skiers and snowboarders aged 6 or older. To identify interrelationships among variables and to group the variables belonging to unified concepts, an exploratory factor analysis was performed using varimax rotation.ResultsThe results revealed 5 factors that grouped the measured variables that may influence the occurrence of accidents while freestyling in terrain parks. The park features, conditions of the activity, and the user’s personal conditions were found to have the most substantial influence on the freestylers’ perceptions.ConclusionsVariables identified as components of the main factors of accident risk in terrain parks should be incorporated into resort management communication and policies.