The observed correlation between New Zealand gym member’s perceived level of technique and rate of injury – A research survey

Abstract

Objectives: Many in the rehabilitation and fitness community agree that technical ability, skill, or technique is of the utmost importance regarding sports performance. However, whether or not it directly impacts one’s rate of injury or ability to prevent or screen injuries is not unanimous. This study sets out to examine any correlation between a New Zealand gym member’s perception of their own lifting quality, skill, and ability and their rate of injury. The research question was, “Is there a correlation between subjective self-reported technique and the prevalence of injury?” Material and Methods: The sample size was n = 70. A convenience sampling method was used, and a 5-question survey was posted on social media (Instagram and Facebook) and open to all who met the inclusion criteria. Results: Out of 70 participants, 56 self-reported a level of technique between 6 and 10/10. Fourteen participants reported a level of technique between 1 and 5/10. Of the 56 that fell within 6–10/10, 60.8% did not experience any injuries within the gym for the previous 24 months, with an average of 7.73/10 (±4.2%) (confidence interval [CI]: 7.404–8.056). In addition, 62.5% did not experience any injuries outside of the gym for the previous 24 months. Out of the 14 participants who self-reported 5/10 or less, 100% of them reported that they experienced injuries within the previous 24 months, with an average of 4 ± 0.592 (±14.8%) (CI: 3.408–4.592). In addition, 71.4% said yes to injuring themselves outside the gym within the previous 24 months. Conclusion: It can be observed from this study that one’s perception of technical ability in the gym may be correlated to how often they are injured. Further research investigating this correlation is required to reach a stronger conclusion.