Influence of equipment choice and athletic experience on the incidence of kitesurfing injuries - A prospective observational study.

Background: Kitesurfing is a popular activity among recreational athletes in Germany, and the number of athletes is constantly increasing. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of athletic experience and equipment choice on the frequency of kitesurfing injuries in Germany.

Methods: Sixty-six athletes completed a standardized questionnaire at the beginning and end of a summer season. Baseline parameters, injury patterns and the use of safety equipment were recorded. Injuries were categorized as proposed by Brukner and Khan, and their severity and relationship with the previously mentioned parameters were analyzed.

Results: Nineteen of the participants (29%) reported a total of 24 injuries during the season, resulting in 230 h per injury and 4.3 injuries per 1000 h of kitesurfing. Eleven bone lesions, 10 skin lesions and 3 ligamentous injuries were observed. Experienced athletes were less frequently injured (p = 0.010). The use of a kite release system did not lower the frequency of injuries (p = 0.558).

Conclusion: Both the frequency and severity of kitesurfing injuries were relatively low in our study. None of the examined materials had an influence on the frequency of injuries, but experienced athletes were less frequently injured.