A treadmill is generally used as a way to increase physical activity in the human body. Often, it is used as a replacement for walking, jogging or running outdoors. Though convenient, a treadmill can also be hazardous --- especially if you do not follow the manufacturer's instructions properly. Knowing how to avoid common treadmill injuries will assure you get the most out of your workout.
Significance
Using a treadmill creates convenience when it comes to customizing your workout. Reasons to use a treadmill include being able to control the incline and speed of your workout, explains Spine-Health. While you may be able to avoid some of the common hazards of running outdoors such as slipping or falling on the pavement or being exposed to harsh weather, you can still injure yourself on a treadmill if you do not practice safety measures.
Types
Some of the most common treadmill injuries include falling, twisting your ankle and inuring yourself on a treadmill part, explains the American College of Sports Medicine. Falling off the treadmill can cause you to injure yourself by hitting your head on the ground or falling onto something such as a sharp object or a wall. If you are not wearing proper running shoes or the treadmill becomes slippery, you can lose your balance and twist your ankle or leg, causing injury. Some treadmills have parts stick out, especially for adjusting other parts of the treadmill or for stabilizing the treadmill. These parts can cause severe injury if you bump into them or scrape your arms and legs on them.
Prevention
You need to make sure you are wearing the right kind of workout equipment before starting a treadmill workout. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and you can walk properly in them. Tie all laces and make sure they are tucked into your shoe if they hang over the sides. Check to make sure you have adequate traction on the bottom of your shoe --- this will prevent slipping or losing your balance. Avoid wearing baggy clothing that may catch on treadmill parts, explains the American College of Sports Medicine.
Solution
Be sure to place your treadmill in a central location that is away from other sharp items. Set up your treadmill away from a wall so if you do slip and fall, you won't crash into the wall. Avoid using the treadmill when small children or pets are present. They can easily jump on the belt, causing injury to both of you. Never use a treadmill that makes you walk or workout in a tight location or by having to bend body parts in an awkward motion, therefore use a treadmill between 54 and 58 inches long, suggests "Fitness." Use a treadmill that has safety rails you can grab onto if needed.
Warning
Some treadmills can malfunction and cause injury. The speed on the treadmill can get locked, making you unable to slow down. The emergency pull cord may fail to shut off the treadmill immediately, causing injury due to loss of balance or falling. In rare cases, parts may malfunction or come lose, causing bodily harm. Use a treadmill by a reputable manufacturer and make sure all parts are working properly before using. Keep a phone nearby when working out. Call for help immediately if you feel you have injured yourself.
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