Almost any piece of exercise equipment can be dangerous when it is not used for its designed function, but there are certain instances where equipment is especially dangerous. Learning how to spot dangerous equipment is important in lowering your risk of injury from working out. You should also follow some basic safety guidelines when you encounter dangerous exercise equipment. The guidelines will help you properly handle the equipment so no one gets hurt.
What to Spot
Examine equipment that has a cable or rope component for fraying. Frayed equipment increases the likelihood of it snapping when you use it. An exercise machine should move fluidly. A machine that doesn't move smoothly can cause a whipping effect with the weight throwing off the balance of any movement you perform. Check that equipment is securely in place. Make sure weights are supported with strong collars or a locking pin to prevent the weight from falling off.
Basic Tips
Report all frayed, non-fluid and unsecured weight equipment to gym staff, or if it is your home gym, replace or oil the gym pieces according to manufacturer specifications. Do not attempt to use equipment that has these issues. Place a note or have the gym place a note on the piece of equipment stating that it is currently out of order.
Risks
Faulty exercise equipment increases the possibility of injury. Another key issue is that faulty equipment may change or alter the muscles that are supposed to be used in conjunction with the equipment. Weight that is not secured properly may fall on you and lead to a crushing-type injury, which can include broken bones or severe bruising.
Considerations
Just because a gym has faulty equipment doesn't mean you need to find a new gym. If the gym has a large assortment of equipment, then simply find another machine. If equipment is limited, you may need to substitute the exercise you wanted to do with a similar one that works the same muscle group. If the gym has a lot of faulty equipment and a poor selection of equipment, find another gym that meets your safety needs.
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