Search Results (22)

Background: Indoor climbing is a rapidly growing sport; however, data on injury patterns and clinical outcomes remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the injury severity, characteristics, and clinical outcomes of indoor climbing-related injuries and explore the clinical applicability of the UIAA MedCom Score. Methods: We conducted a 10-year retrospective analysis (2012–2021) of patients aged ≥16 years presenting with indoor climbing-related injuries to a Swiss level 1 emergency department. Cases were identified using predefined keywords in the E-care and Qualicare databases. Demographics, injury mechanisms and patterns, Injury Severity Score (ISS), UIAA MedCom Score, treatment strategies, and clinical outcomes were analysed. A multivariable logistic regression model was applied to explore factors associated with higher injury severity. Results: A total of 98 patients were included, with 50% aged 26–35 years. Injuries occurred with a similar frequency during climbing and bouldering (51.0% vs. 49.0%). The predominant mechanism was ground fall (68.4%). Lower-extremity injuries were most common, particularly affecting the ankle and foot (43%). Most injuries were of mild-to-moderate severity, with 46.9% classified as UIAA grade 2. Conservative treatment was sufficient in 83.7% of cases, while 16.3% required surgical intervention, and one fatality (1.0%) was recorded. Injury severity was significantly associated with clinical outcomes, including hospitalisation and resource utilisation. In addition, in a multivariable model, higher Injury Severity Score (ISS) was significantly associated with longer hospital length of stay. A strong association between the UIAA MedCom Score and ISS was observed (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The indoor climbing injuries of individuals presenting to the emergency department were predominantly mild to moderate and were generally associated with favourable short-term outcomes. These findings are supported by model-based analysis demonstrating an independent association between injury severity and hospital length of stay. These findings are based on a single-centre emergency department cohort and do not capture injuries managed outside the hospital setting. Therefore, conclusions regarding overall injury risk should be interpreted with caution. The observed association between the UIAA MedCom Score and ISS suggests that the UIAA classification may serve as a complementary tool for injury assessment, although further validation is required. Full article

Background: Sport climbing, encompassing lead, bouldering, and speed disciplines, has transformed from a niche activity to a widely popular trend, notably after its Olympic debut at the Tokyo Games 2021. This recognition spurred an increase in publications. Despite the emerging scientific interest, terminology in climbing textbooks often relies on experiential rather than scientific understanding, leading to inconsistencies. This paper aims to standardize terminology by applying sports science frameworks, including biomechanics, training science, and sports medicine. Methods: The study reinterprets general sports science concepts for climbing-specific applications, proposing a structure of climbing skill that covers physical fitness components, biomechanical principles and techniques (body positioning), and specific components (hand and foot positioning). This integrated approach seeks to establish a coherent nomenclature, facilitating research, training, prevention, and rehabilitation within the climbing discipline. Results: Five primary climbing principles are proposed: optimal wall contact, maintained stability, center of mass shift, movement initiation from the legs and optimal climbing speed. Two technique categories—frontal and rotational—are defined in consideration of the spatial position of the pelvic frontal plane in relation to the wall surface. Each climbing technique can be described by applying the three-phase model of acyclic movements. Principles and techniques both aim to maximize efficiency in moving and resting on the climbing wall. Conclusions: A unified understanding of climbing principles and techniques is vital for progressing research, training programs, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation efforts in sport climbing. Adopting a comprehensive sports science framework promises enhanced clarity and efficacy in climbing practices, benefiting both theoretical analyses and practical applications. Full article

Lead climbing and bouldering have witnessed a surge in popularity, particularly highlighted by their inclusion in prestigious events like the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo. This systematic review aims to comprehensively assess existing literature on injury risk factors and prevention programs specific to these disciplines. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus up to November 2023. Methodological quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Data synthesis involved qualitative analysis. Of 463 screened records, 7 studies were included, encompassing data from over 4000 climbers. The literature consistently indicates that overuse injuries—particularly to the fingers and shoulders—are more prevalent than acute injuries in adult population. However, evidence for specific risk factors is inconclusive and contradictory. Reported associations for higher skill level, age, and use of preventive measures (e.g., taping) were inconsistent across studies. Further research employing rigorous methodologies and long-term follow-up is warranted to elucidate injury mechanisms in lead climbing and bouldering. These investigations are crucial for informing clinical practice and developing sport-specific injury prevention strategies aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes in these disciplines. Future studies should focus on standardizing injury definitions and assessment methods and explore targeted preventive measures to address the unique risks associated with these sports. Full article

Sport climbing has evolved into a demanding discipline where lower limb performance is increasingly relevant, particularly in indoor bouldering. This exploratory study aimed to identify trends in strength and flexibility variables of the lower limbs in 24 recreational climbers (17 males, seven females), classified by sex and climbing level. Male climbers showed significantly greater performance in all measures of strength and power, including vertical and horizontal jumps, pull-ups, and handgrip strength. In contrast, female climbers demonstrated superior lower-limb flexibility and hip mobility, with significant differences observed when normalized to height. They also showed slightly better ankle dorsiflexion, although this difference was not statistically significant. Climbing level (mean: 6c+) correlated significantly with pull-ups (r = 0.598, p = 0.002), relative grip strength (r = 0.440, p = 0.032), and fat mass (r = −0.415, p = 0.043). Despite the lack of association between lower-limb performance and climbing grade, unilateral tests such as the Hop Test and hip mobility assessments may hold value for injury prevention and movement control. These findings highlight that lower-limb training, particularly strength, unilateral control, and flexibility, should not be excluded from physical preparation in climbing. Preventive strategies focusing on joint stability are especially recommended for female climbers due to their higher joint laxity and increased ACL injury risk. Future research should incorporate climbing-specific assessments and explore these variables in other climber profiles, such as elite, youth, or injured athletes. Full article

Objectives: This single-arm, pre–post intervention study with a three-month follow-up aimed to determine whether a ten-day outdoor camp combining mixed-modality physical activity and time-restricted feeding elicits positive changes in multiple body-composition outcome measures and whether those changes persist at three-month follow-up. Methods: Forty healthy undergraduates (18 male, 22 female) participated in a 10-day outdoor camp that combined multi-modal physical activities (rock climbing and bouldering, swimming, hiking, applied paddling, survival skills, etc.) with a 13 h daily time-restricted feeding window. Body fat percentage, skeletal muscle percentage, body mass, total body-water percentage, visceral fat level, and skeletal muscle index were measured using the InBody 270 at baseline, immediately post-camp, and at the three-month follow-up. Results: Mixed-effects models with random intercepts for subject revealed significant reductions in body fat percentage (β = −1.63, p < 0.001) and visceral fat level (β = −0.72, p = 0.001), alongside increases in skeletal muscle percentage (β = 1.02, p < 0.001), skeletal muscle index (β = 0.30, p < 0.001), and total body-water percentage (β = 1.19, p < 0.001) from baseline to post-camp; no outcomes differed between baseline and follow-up and no time × sex interactions were observed. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a brief, intensive nature-based intervention can drive rapid, multidimensional improvements in body composition, but structured maintenance is required to sustain benefits. Full article

This study aims to analyze the possibility of developing balance ability, highlighting symmetries, asymmetries, and levels of proprioception, in children aged 11–13 from practicing indoor and outdoor climbing and bouldering/escalation exercises. The research subjects were 54 children (both boys and girls) aged 11–13, divided into two groups: an experimental group of 28 students (14 boys and 14 girls) who participated in an extracurricular climbing activity twice a week during the 2023–2024 school year, and a control group of 26 students (13 boys and 13 girls) who did not engage in extracurricular motor activities. During the initial and final evaluations, 12 tests were used to assess balance ability, symmetries, and asymmetries—10 tests were conducted using the Sensbalance MiniBoard 1.0 platform in addition to the Standing Stork test for each leg. The analysis of the results showed statistically significant differences between the groups, with the experimental group recording improvements in symmetry and proprioception related to increased balance levels. This work is addressed to teachers, trainers, and physical therapists who, in the educational process, aim to develop balance and proprioception as objectives that improve children’s motor skills. In conclusion, the study results reveal the impact of a program based on climbing and escalating exercises in extracurricular activities on the development of static and dynamic balance ability. Full article

This manuscript presents a multidisciplinary study that proposes a methodology for delineating and categorizing vulnerability at rockfall risk areas to avoid human injuries and infrastructure damage caused by rockfalls. The presented workflow includes (i) classical geological mapping, (ii) the interpretation of high-resolution satellite data for observing the spatial distribution of fallen boulders, (iii) analytical hierarchy processing of spatial information within a Geographical Information System (GIS) platform, (iv) close-range remote sensing campaigns with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs), and (v) integrated simulation of rockfall events. This methodology was applied to Kalymnos Island, which belongs to the Dodecanese Islands complex of the southeastern Aegean Sea in Greece. It is characterized by unique geomorphological features, including extensive vertical limestone cliffs that span the island. These cliffs make it one of the world’s most densely concentrated areas for sport climbing. The results highlighted the areas that the local authorities need to focus on and suggested measures for increasing the safety of climbers and infrastructure. Full article

Climbing is an Olympic discipline in full development and multidisciplinary in nature, where the influences of body composition and nutritional status on performance have not yet been clarified despite the quest for a low weight in anti-gravity disciplines such as climbing. The present cross-sectional study aimed to conduct nutritional (3-day dietary diaries) and body composition (ISAK profile) assessments on sport climbing athletes by gender and climbing level during the months of February and March 2024. The t-test for independent samples and the Mann–Whitney U-test, as well as an ANOVA and the Kruskal–Wallis H-test, were used to compare the distributions of two or more groups, respectively, and Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients were used to estimate the correlations between the different variables. The mean age of the 46 Spanish climbers (22 men and 24 women) was 30 years (SD: 9) with 7.66 years of experience (SD: 6.63). The mean somatotype of the athletes was classified as balanced mesomorph. Negative correlations were observed between fat mass variables and climbing level (p < 0.010), and positive correlations were observed with forearm circumference (p < 0.050). The mean energy availability (EA) was 33.01 kcal-kg FFM⁻¹d⁻¹ (SD: 9.02), with 55.6% of athletes having a suboptimal EA status and 35.6% having low energy availability (LEA). The carbohydrate and protein intakes were below the recommendations in 57.8% and 31.1% of athletes, respectively. There were deficient intakes of all micronutrients except phosphorus in males. These findings suggest that climbing athletes are at a high risk of developing low energy availability states and concomitant problems. Optimal nutritional monitoring may be advisable in this type of athlete to try to reduce the risk of LEA. Full article

Based on previous research studies and systematic reviews, success in sport climbing seems to be determined by variables such as strength, power, or endurance. However, besides strength-endurance parameters, several other factors may influence the performance of sports climbing. Moreover, there is a lack of research assessing differences in body composition and anthropometric parameters between lead climbing and bouldering—the two most common sport climbing subdisciplines. The presented research analyzed the connection between body mass, body height, body mass index, and the best result in sport climbing among male lead climbers and boulderers. Additionally, we investigated differences in starting climbing age and climbing experience in both climbing subdisciplines. We analyzed 422 male sport climbers’ profiles in two categories: “Route Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for lead climbers and “Boulder Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for boulderers based on the 8a.nu world ranking website. The results showed that the “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers had lower body mass and lower body height. These differences were also observed between “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers. The “Higher Elite” group started climbing at a younger age and had a more extended period to achieve the most challenging route than “Elite” climbers in both subdisciplines. Our results suggest that lower body mass and lower body height can be key factors in lead climbing performance. Full article

Competitive climbers engage in highly structured training regimens to achieve peak performance levels, with efficient time management as a critical aspect. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) training can close the gap between time-efficient conditioning training and achieving optimal prerequisites for peak climbing-specific performances. Therefore, we examined potential neuromuscular adaptations resulting from the NMFES intervention by analyzing the efficacy of twice-weekly NMES-supported fingerboard (hang board) training compared with thrice-weekly conventional fingerboard training over 7 training weeks in enhancing climbing-specific endurance among intermediate to advanced climbers. Participants were randomly divided into the NMES and control groups. Eighteen participants completed the study (14 male, 4 female; mean age: 25.7 ± 5.3 years; mean climbing experience: 6.4 ± 3.4 years). Endurance was assessed by measuring the maximal time athletes could support their body weight (hanging to exhaustion) on a 20 mm-deep ledge at three intervals: pre-, in-between- (after 4 weeks of training), and post-training (after 7 weeks of training). The findings revealed that despite the lower training volume in the NMES group, no significant differences were observed between the NMES and control groups in climbing-specific endurance. Both groups exhibited notable improvements in endurance, particularly after the in-between test. Consequently, a twice-weekly NMES-supported fingerboard training regimen demonstrated non-inferiority to a thrice-weekly conventional training routine. Incorporating NMES into fingerboard workouts could offer time-saving benefits. Full article

Climbing, a sport with increasing popularity, poses diverse risks and injury patterns across its various disciplines. This study evaluates the incidence and nature of climbing-related injuries, focusing on how different disciplines and climbers’ personal characteristics affect these injuries. Data on injury incidence, severity, and consequences, as well as climbers’ personal attributes, were collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using generalized linear models and generalized linear mixed models, Cochran–Armitage tests, and multivariate analysis. Our findings indicate a direct correlation between time spent on bouldering and lead climbing and increased injury frequency, while injury incidence decreases with time in traditional climbing. Interestingly, personal characteristics showed no significant impact on injury incidence or severity. However, distinct patterns emerged in individual disciplines regarding the recent injuries in which age and weight of climbers play a role. While the phase of occurrence and duration of consequences show no significant variation across disciplines, the intensity of the required treatment and causes of injury differ. This research provides insights into climbing injuries’ complex nature, highlighting the need for tailored preventive strategies across climbing disciplines. It underscores the necessity for further investigation into the factors contributing to climbing injuries, advocating for more targeted injury prevention and safety measures in this evolving sport. Full article

Rock climbing has evolved from a method for alpine mountaineering into a popular recreational activity and competitive sport. Advances in safety equipment and the rapid growth of indoor climbing facilities has enabled climbers to focus on the physical and technical movements needed to elevate performance. Through improved training methods, climbers can now achieve ascents of extreme difficulty. A critical aspect to further improve performance is the ability to continuously measure body movement and physiologic responses while ascending the climbing wall. However, traditional measurement devices (e.g., dynamometer) limit data collection during climbing. Advances in wearable and non-invasive sensor technologies have enabled new applications for climbing. This paper presents an overview and critical analysis of the scientific literature on sensors used during climbing. We focus on the several highlighted sensors with the ability to provide continuous measurements during climbing. These selected sensors consist of five main types (body movement, respiration, heart activity, eye gazing, skeletal muscle characterization) that demonstrate their capabilities and potential climbing applications. This review will facilitate the selection of these types of sensors in support of climbing training and strategies. Full article

(1) Background: Adolescent refugees in Lebanon and Lebanese youth are both at high risk of suffering from reduced psychological well-being. Sport is an evidence-based strategy for improving mental and physical health, and climbing is a type of sport that may positively impact both. The aim of this study is to test the effect of a manualized, psychosocial group climbing intervention on the well-being, distress, self-efficacy, and social cohesion of adolescents in Lebanon. In addition, the mechanisms behind psychological changes will be investigated. (2) Methods: In this mixed-methods waitlist-controlled study, we are allocating a minimum of 160 participants to an intervention (IG) or a control group (CG). The primary outcome is overall mental well-being (WEMWBS) after the 8-week intervention. Secondary outcomes include distress symptoms (K-6 Distress Scale), self-efficacy (General Self-Efficacy Scale; GSE), and social cohesion. Potential mechanisms of change and implementation factors are being investigated through qualitative interviews with a subgroup of 40 IG participants. (3) Conclusions: The results may contribute to knowledge of sports interventions and their effects on psychological well-being and will provide insights regarding low-intensity interventions for supporting adolescent refugees and host populations in conflict-affected settings. The study was prospectively registered at the ISRCTN platform (current-controlled trials). ISRCTN13005983. Full article

Fingers of sport climbers are exposed to high mechanical loads. This work focuses on the fingers of a 52-year-old active elite climber who was the first in mankind to master 8B (V13), 8B+ (V14) and 8C (V15) graded boulders, bringing lifelong high-intensity loads to his hands. It is therefore hypothesized that he belongs to a small group of people with the highest accumulative loads to their fingers in the climbing scene. Fingers were analyzed by means of ultrasonography, X-rays and physical examination. Soft tissue and bone adaptations, as well as the onset of osteoarthritis and finger stiffness, were found, especially in digit III, the longest and therefore most loaded digit. Finally, this article aims to provide an overview of the current literature in this field. In conclusion, elite sport climbing results in soft tissue and bone adaptations in the fingers, and the literature provides evidence that these adaptations increase over one’s career. However, at later stages, radiographic and clinical signs of osteoarthritis, especially in the middle finger, seem to occur, although they may not be symptomatic. Full article

Climbing became one of the official Olympic sports in 2020. The nociplastic pain mechanism is indicated as important in professional sports. Functional pain, which has not been examined in climbers until now, can be an example of nociplastic pain. This study aimed to determine functional pain locations in climbers according to gender and dominant climbing style. Climbers (n = 183) and healthy subjects (n = 160) completed an online survey focused on functional pain occurrence in the head, spine, and upper limbs. The logistic regression showed that climbing predisposes one to functional pain at: Gleno-humeral joint (odds ratio (OR): 3.06; area under the curve (AUC): 0.635), elbow (OR: 2.86; AUC: 0.625), fingers (OR: 7.74; AUC: 0.733), all (p < 0.05). Among the climbers, the female gender predisposed one to pain at: GHJ (OR: 3.34; AUC: 0.638), thoracic spine (OR: 1.95; AUC: 0.580), and lumbosacral spine (OR: 1.96; AUC: 0.578), all (p < 0.05). Climbing predisposes one to functional pain development in the upper limb. While the male climbers mainly suffered from finger functional pain, the female climbers reported functional pain in the GHJ and the thoracic and lumbosacral spine. Further studies on functional pain occurrence are recommended. Full article