HIGH RISK OUTDOOR ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES MOUNTAIN BIKING, ROCK CLIMBING, BACK COUNTRY SKIING, AND KAYAKING 1365

Abstract

An increasing number of people are participating in high risk outdoor athletic activities. Mountain bikes can be found in any bike shop, and off road trails, races and tours are common. Rock climbing has moved from a somewhat obscure activity with few participants, to the fitness arena where thousands of people can practice climbing a wall in a health club or outdoor equipment store before attempting the real thing. Likewise, back country skiing has become the latest challenge to many nordic enthusiasts. Kayaking is an increasingly popular and exciting way to explore the waterways. All these activities create new challenges and hazards for the outdoor athlete. They require specialized skills and equipment. These activities also place the participant at risk for unique injuries. Most of these adrenaline-addicted athletes are well aware of the risks they take, yet continue to participate. It takes a certain type of person to climb a 1000 foot cliff, bike at high speed down a mountain, tackle raging rapids or hike up the side of a glacier in order to ski down. As these activities become more popular, it is essential that physicians, trainers and therapists have an understanding of the basics of these sports, the skills they demand, the injuries these athletes face, and the reasons why these often daring individuals chose to participate in high risk sports.