Markel Insurance, Arlington, Va., is the latest company to vault into the trend of cheerleading insurance, joining others such as Sadler Sports & Recreation Insurance and Bollinger Inc.

Markel said it has expanded its gymnastics program to cover competitive cheerleading gyms in all states except Hawaii.

Cheerleading has become an increasingly athletic and high-risk sport, and Markel's stance in risk management prompted the company to help "cheer gym customers reduce the frequency and severity of accidents," said Sandra Mihaloff, director of Markel's Health and Fitness unit.

Common cheerleading injuries are similar to those seen in other gymnastic sports, with harm coming to knees and ankles, according to Martha Elrod, executive director of marketing and communications at the National Cheerleaders Association.

"It's a fast-growing industry," said Stephanie Foy of K&K Insurance, which provides the coverage.

Ms. Elrod doesn't think so. "[Cheerleading insurance] is kind of flat right now... it's been about the same for a few years," she opined.

The Markel policy includes coverage for general liability, property damages for buildings and their contents, accidental medical, business income, and crime.

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Markel Insurance Rooting For New Cheerleading Insurance

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