Home » SPORTS TOURISM » Cycling and Watersports Lead to Majority of Sports Holiday Injuries – What You Need to Know Before Your Next Trip

Published on
August 12, 2025 |

Research has shown that cycling and watersports activities contribute to the majority of injury-related claims on sports holidays. SportsCover Direct, which offers specialized and comprehensive insurance for those involved in sports and leisure activities, analyzed its recent first-party claims data. The findings revealed that 41% of sports holiday claims were linked to at least one injury type.

Cycling has been identified as the primary activity contributing to injury-related claims, accounting for 47% of the total claims on sports holidays. This is not surprising, as cycling, while an immensely popular and enjoyable activity, often involves risks that can lead to accidents, particularly in challenging terrains or high-speed environments. With its widespread popularity, especially in regions known for scenic biking trails, the high percentage of claims from cycling is understandable. The nature of cycling accidents, ranging from falls to collisions, contributes to its prominent position on the list.

Closely following cycling, watersports account for 28% of injury-related claims, making it the second most common activity linked to accidents. Within the watersports category, certain activities such as kite surfing, kayaking, and scuba diving stand out as the leading causes of injuries. Kite surfing, for instance, involves the combination of wind power and water, creating the potential for accidents due to strong gusts or mismanagement of equipment. Kayaking, while a peaceful and thrilling pursuit, also carries risks, particularly when navigating turbulent waters or during capsizes. Scuba diving, though often seen as a calm activity, also presents safety concerns such as diving accidents, decompression sickness, and injuries caused by underwater obstacles.

Other popular outdoor activities also contribute to injury claims. Hiking and trekking each account for 7% of the claims, reflecting the inherent risks of exploring rugged or remote landscapes, especially when trekkers are unprepared for challenging terrain or sudden weather changes. Climbing and bouldering, another physically demanding activity, also contribute to 7% of claims, often due to falls or equipment failure. Skydiving, which is known for its exhilarating nature, is responsible for 4% of the claims, with the excitement of jumping from an aircraft sometimes leading to accidents due to technical errors or misjudgments.

Thai boxing and horse riding, each accounting for 4% and 3% of the claims, are activities that carry inherent risks related to physical contact, impacts, or falls. Golf, often considered a low-risk sport, still accounts for 1% of the claims, likely due to injuries from repetitive movements or accidents on the course. The wide range of activities contributing to these claims underscores the importance of proper safety measures and preparedness to reduce the risk of injury during sports holidays.

Insights into the healing time for common sports injuries were shared by James Vickers, a consultant physiotherapist, rehabilitation, and exercise specialist at Marylebone Health. He explained the general healing times and recommended physiotherapy treatments for various injuries.

According to his findings:

Broken bones (leg, arm, wrist): Healing time varies depending on the location and type of break. Lower limb fractures, such as leg breaks, can take up to three months to heal, while upper limb fractures typically require about six weeks. The size and nature of the fracture determine the healing time, with small cracks requiring less time compared to full displacement breaks.Fractures (collarbone, finger): Collarbone fractures fall under the same timeline as upper limb breaks, usually healing within six weeks.Torn ligaments (ACL): The healing time for an ACL tear depends on the severity, with tears graded from 1 to 3, with 3 being a complete rupture. Complete ACL ruptures often necessitate surgery, though some may heal with the right support, typically within three months. Other knee ligaments, like the MCL, might heal with proper care. Less severe tears generally heal in about six weeks.Abrasions (cuts): Skin abrasions usually heal quickly, typically within one to ten days.

Sean Walsh, Head of Marketing at SportsCover Direct, also provided comments on the insurance offerings. He highlighted that the company, which has been providing specialist sports insurance since 1991, covers over 500 sports and activities, tailoring its products specifically for sports enthusiasts.

He explained that travel insurance with sports coverage is different from most basic travel policies, as it includes coverage for a wide range of sports abroad, including extreme sports, competitions, and training camps. These activities are often excluded from standard travel insurance policies, but SportsCover Direct’s products are designed to cater to amateurs and experienced participants alike.