Abstract

A sample of 726 aerobic dancers was surveyed by questionnaire to document the prevalence, types and severity of injuries experienced. Data were gathered on demographics, exercise behavior, and environmental conditions during a 1 week period. Most of the subjects (66) engaged in aerobic dance classes at least every other day, with a mean exercise time of 195 minutes per week. Twenty-eight percent of the subjects had been exercising 1 to 2 years, and 26 had been exercising 2 years or longer. Forty-nine percent of the subjects reported a history of at least one injury related to aerobic. Most of the injuries were to the shin (24,5), lower back (12,9), and ankle (12,2). Among those subjects injured, 23 reportedly saw a physician because of their injury. The frequency with which subjects exercised was associated with a history of injury. Subjects who exercised fewer than four times per week reported fewer injuries (43) than those who exercised four times per week (60) or more (66). This study is a first step toward providing data to help physicians counsel aerobic dancers regarding injury prevention. Verf.-Referat