Gym Safety 101: How to Get Fit Without Hurting Yourself
Going to the gym for a weight-lifting session, jog or other activity is a great way to stay physically and mentally healthy, but it can also lead to disaster. Defective and non-defective gym equipment can cause serious injuries. Gyms can also leave equipment where people can trip or hire unqualified personal trainers.Every year, people suffer brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, fractured arms and legs, and even amputations while working out in gyms. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 460,000 people are sent to the emergency room every year by exercise equipment.Some exercise equipment injuries are fatal. The former CEO of SurveyMonkey suffered a fatal brain injury after falling off of a treadmill.
How to Avoid Gym Injuries
If you enjoy going to the gym, it’s important to know of ways to avoid becoming injured.Pay attention: It is easier than you think to become distracted at the gym. Watching what other people are doing, checking your phone, changing songs or answering text messages can put you at risk for being injured. You may fail to notice gym equipment that has been left on the floor (this is very common by the way). A person could be working out with a large weight bar right next to you, putting you at risk for being hit.Only use certified personal trainers: Personal trainers should carry several certifications accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. They should also be CPR and AED certified. You can ask your personal trainer for their certifications before signing the dotted line to attend classes.Be careful on treadmills: Treadmills are dangerous if used incorrectly. Always make sure your shoelaces are tied before running on a treadmill. Never multitask while using a treadmill, such as changing songs on your smart phone or channels on the television.Avoid defective equipment: Gym equipment gets used by numerous people every day. In some cases, gym equipment is in use 24/7. Equipment can degrade over time. This is why it is important to ask your gym how often they repair equipment. If you see broken equipment, report it to staff so others are not hurt.
Can Gyms Be Held Liable for Injuries?
Almost every gym is going to require you to sign a waiver. These waivers use broad language, and affirm that you know and assume the risks. Waivers are not always upheld in court, especially in cases of negligence or recklessness on part of the gym. If you are injured at a gym, it is important to contact an attorney to explore legal options.This is not about ‘getting even’ with the gym, but holding them accountable. A gym that knowingly uses defective equipment, hires untrained staff, or leaves hazards on its property should be held accountable when people are injured.The Texas personal injury attorneys at Mike Love & Associates, LLC can help people who have been harmed by negligent businesses.