Individual behavioral and sporting risk factors affecting injuries in recreational skiers and snowboarders: a case-control study

Abstract

ABSTRACT This case-control study aimed to analysis of the relationship between individual behaviours and sports risk factors and injuries among skiers and snowboarders. During the 2021–2022 winter season, 1132 injured and 1069 non-injured skiers and snowboarders were surveyed regarding demographic, self-reported individual behavioural and sporting characteristics. Multivariate regression analysis revealed previous snow-sports injury (OR: 26.39, 95% CI: 13.32–52.31, P < 0.001), nervousness (OR: 3.78, 95% CI: 2.91–4.90, P < 0.001), calm (OR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.46–2.48, P < 0.001) and fearful (OR: 20.60, 95% CI: 11.45–37.04, P < 0.001) emotional states, and higher risk-taking behaviours (OR: 3.72, 95% CI: 2.87–4.83, P < 0.001) were important risk factors associated with injuries to all skiers and snowboarders. Compared to snowboarders, the risk of injury to skiers was more likely to increase as the length of their skiing experience increases. Emotional and cognitive levels appear to be important conditions that influence injuries to skiers and snowboarders, a proper understanding of the potential interactions between cognition and behaviour appears to be important for public ski safety management.