A Comparative Study on the Impact of Flooring Types on the Occurrence of Sports Injuries in Elementary Schools

Abstract

This study, conducted in Oued City, Algeria, during the academic year 2023/2024, employs a comparative approach to investigate the impact of different flooring types on the frequency and severity of sports injuries in elementary school physical education classes. Using purposive sampling, data were collected from 46 schools with varying types of flooring, based on existing administrative registers. Four types of flooring—artificial grass, asphalt, cement, and dirt—were analyzed using statistical methods, including ANOVA, to assess differences in injury rates and severity. The results indicate that asphalt surfaces exhibit the highest injury rates, particularly for severe and joint injuries. Cement surfaces are associated with more muscle and skin injuries, while artificial grass and dirt surfaces show lower overall injury rates. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate flooring to reduce injury risks, offering evidence-based recommendations for safer physical education environments in schools. Future research should consider longitudinal studies and additional factors to enhance injury prevention strategies.