While mountain biking is often perceived as a dangerous sport, a new study published in PLOS ONE has shown that the health benefits of mountain biking outweigh the risk of injury. Additionally, the study showed that the health benefits of hiking also outweigh the potential risks.
The research included a systematic review of 17 studies on mountain biking and 7 studies on hiking. The goal of the review was to determine the most common types and locations of injuries in the two sports. Since mountain bikers and hikers represent the two largest groups of trail users, this information may help medical personnel in the management of trail users and may also help determine the risk/benefit profile of the two sports.
Among mountain bikers, the most common injuries included bruises, scrapes, and cuts. Most injuries to mountain bikers occurred on the upper limbs. Fractures also occurred in a smaller portion of mountain bikers but did not represent a common injury. Among hikers, the most common injuries were blisters and ankle sprains, all occurring on the lower limbs. In both sports, the majority of injuries were of mild severity.
The authors of the study noted that mountain biking in particular is often seen as an extreme, thrill-seeking sport. However, the results of this study showed that the majority of injuries in mountain biking were of mild severity. Notably, although they were not common, fractures and head injuries were seen regularly among mountain bikers, emphasizing the importance of high-quality helmets and other protective gear. Nonetheless, in the case of both mountain biking and hiking, the authors believe that the health benefits far outweigh the risk of injury. Physical activity such as mountain biking and hiking can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
Sources: PLOS ONE, Science Daily
