The Prevalence and Magnitude of Injuries within Pole Fitness.

Abstract Aim:

Pole Fitness is one of the UK’s biggest new fitness trends with amateur classes rising in popularity. Similarities and crossovers between skill and the physical demands have been identified with similar artistic sports; however, there is limited evidence to support the risk of injury within Pole Fitness. Therefore, the study aimed to identify the prevalence and magnitude of injuries within Pole Fitness.

Method:

Participants (n=400; age 32 ± 8 years) were recruited through online social media platforms using a modified version of the OSTRC. The questionnaire was distributed online for seven days, allowing the study to reach a wider audience.

Results:

Clear themes were established, showing significant results and provided a good representation of the population that participate in Pole Fitness. Results identified that 89% of the sample surveyed reported an injury that affected participation in normal or competition training. The highest prevalence of injury was in the shoulder area (45%), followed by wrists (19%). Furthermore, the study showed that 80% of participants had to miss training or competition and subsequently lost time due to an injury.

Conclusion:

Overall, the study showed that there is a high prevalence and magnitude of injury amongst those who participate in Pole Fitness. The most common area of injury was identified as the shoulders, followed by wrists. Therefore, Pole Fitness would undoubtedly benefit from injury prevention methods. It was identified that interventions should be put in place to support pole fitness participants to prevent or reduce the risk of injury, with a specific focus on shoulder and wrist areas.

Awaiting Publication…

Jane x