How Safe is Gymnastics?

Among girls’ sports, gymnastics is known to have a high injury rate. A recent study looked at gymnastics injuries among kids ages 6 through 17 who were treated in hospital emergency rooms. From 1990 through 2005 an estimated 26,600 injuries occurred each year. Girls sustained most of the injuries. But don’t roll up the mat. The sport is no riskier than cheerleading, soccer, and basketball. To help keep your gymnast safe, find out if she has received safety training, including how to fall and land correctly.