Which sport has the worst injuries?

Which Sport Has the Worst Injuries?

When it comes to sports-related injuries, not all activities are created equal—but what might surprise you is which ones top the list. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not football or rugby leading the injury count. According to recent data, bicycling takes the unfortunate crown with a staggering 425,910 injuries reported in a single year. That’s more than any other sport, and it highlights how risky even seemingly casual activities can be, especially when safety gear like helmets is skipped or traffic conditions are ignored.

Next in line is something many don’t immediately think of as a sport: using exercise equipment. With 377,939 injuries, it’s clear that treadmills, weight machines, and home gyms can be dangerous when used improperly or without proper instruction. Similarly, trampolines and playground equipment land high on the list—not because they’re competitive sports, but because falls and miscalculations are common, especially among younger users.

Among traditional team sports, skateboards, scooters, and hoverboards rank surprisingly high with over 217,000 injuries, reflecting the rise in popularity of these modes of urban transport. Basketball follows closely with 214,847 injuries—mostly ankle sprains and knee issues—often due to sudden stops and jumps on hard courts.

While football and swimming still see significant injury numbers, they trail behind many other activities. The real takeaway? Risk isn’t just about the sport—it’s about preparation, protective gear, and awareness. Even low-contact activities can lead to serious harm if precautions aren’t taken. So whether you're biking to work or shooting hoops, safety should always be part of the game.