Which of the following is a common type of injury in physical education?

Sprains and strains are indeed common types of injuries in physical education due to the nature of physical activity, which often involves sudden movements, twisting motions, and overexertion. A sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, typically from trauma to a joint, whereas a strain involves muscles or tendons being overstretched or torn. These injuries are frequently seen when students engage in sports, dance, or other vigorous physical activities where they may not have proper technique or conditioning.

Fractures, while serious and potentially common in certain high-impact sports, are less frequent than sprains and strains in a general physical education setting where activities may involve a broader range of movements. Bacterial infections from gym equipment are also a concern but are less typical compared to the immediate physical injuries that occur during exercise. Heat exhaustion due to dehydration is certainly a risk, especially in high temperatures or during intense exercise, but it relates more to environmental conditions and hydration levels rather than direct physical stresses on the body like sprains and strains. Thus, sprains and strains are highlighted as the most prevalent injuries in the context of physical education activities.