It’s ironic that gyms, which are meant to make us healthier, are causing injuries to nearly 3800 residents in Otago and Southland every year.
Recent data from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) reveals that gym/fitness training is now the leading cause of sport and recreation-related injuries in New Zealand, surpassing popular sports like rugby union, football, cycling, and netball.
Spring sees a peak in injuries as more people hit the gym to shed their “winter coat” and drop the extra weight gained during the colder months.
In Otago, there were 3188 gym-related injury claims last year, the highest in six years. In Southland, 592 gym-related injuries were reported, the highest since 2018.
Nationwide, ACC accepted over 60,000 gym-related injuries in 2024, costing taxpayers over $63 million in recovery assistance.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker emphasized the importance of having a plan when prioritizing fitness and strength training to avoid injuries.
The data shows that 96% of gym injuries in 2024 were soft-tissue injuries like strains and sprains, with the most common areas being the back and shoulders. Fractures and dislocations were also reported.
The age group most affected by gym-related injuries was 30-35, followed by the 25-29 age group.
Whitaker advised individuals to complete a dynamic warm-up, know their limits, and listen to their bodies to prevent injuries. He also recommended seeking advice from a personal trainer and incorporating recovery days into training schedules.
If injured, it’s important to take time to recover and not rush back into training.
Overall, while it’s great to see more people focusing on their health and fitness, it’s crucial to be mindful of the risk of injury and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
john.lewis@odt.co.nz
