Resources-2026 Incident Report Summary

Pdf Summary

The 2026 Climbing Gym Incident, Injury and Insurance Summary reviews data from participating CWA Insurance Program gyms between January 2020 and June 2025. During that period, gyms reported more than 2,400 incidents, and about 200 became insurance claims, across an estimated 25 to 40 million gym visits. Overall, climbing remains a low-incident activity, with estimated injury rates of about 0.04–0.06 injuries per 1,000 activity hours based on the available data.<br /><br />The report highlights three major safety findings:<br /><br />1. Bouldering claims are more likely among newer climbers. First-time boulderers were six times more likely to escalate an incident into a claim than experienced climbers. The report emphasizes the value of structured orientations, active staff engagement, and clear communication about the risks of bouldering.<br /><br />2. Ankle injuries dominate bouldering claims. More than 40% of bouldering injuries involve ankles, usually from landings rather than climbing moves. The report recommends teaching climbers to downclimb when possible, fall properly, stay relaxed, bend knees, and avoid breaking falls with their arms. It also supports recent industry standards requiring bouldering orientation and improved padding/fall zone design.<br /><br />3. Auto belay incidents are fewer, but more likely to become claims. About one in three auto belay incidents escalates to a claim. Roughly half involve not clipping in at all, and about 20% involve incorrect clipping. These are mainly human errors, not equipment failures. The report recommends strong orientations, proficiency assessments, signage, larger gates, and hands-on demonstrations.<br /><br />The broader message is that incidents with newer climbers in “simple” or accessible activities create the most claim risk. Effective risk management—through training, orientations, assessments, incident reporting, and emergency planning—can reduce injuries, lower claims, and protect both climbers and gym operations.

Asset Subtitle

A summary of selected findings from the 2026 Climbing Gym Incident, Injury and Insurance Data Report, a joint publication of the Climbing Wall Association and Monument Sports Group.

Keywords

climbing gym

incident report

insurance claims

bouldering injuries

auto belay

ankle injuries

new climbers

safety orientation

risk management

injury rates