Do I Need To Use The Magnet For My Treadmill?

The magnet on a treadmill is a safety feature. Often referred to as a magnetic key, safety key or console key, the magnet automatically shuts off the treadmill belt if you slip, slide backward or fall. You should always use the magnet, because without it, you could sustain much greater injuries if you slip.

Identification

The magnetic key is a safety feature available on most motorized treadmills. The magnet is attached to one end of a string. Attached to the opposite end of the string is a clip. You attach the clip to your waistband, belt or other piece of clothing. The magnetic key attaches to the console of the treadmill. A magnetic spot is usually marked on the bottom portion of the treadmill console and the magnetic key sticks to this area.

Safety

The treadmill magnet is a safety feature, but it only works if you attach the clip to your clothes. If you lose your balance or trip while on the treadmill, as you fall the string pulls the magnetic key off the console. This immediately stops the walking belt, preventing further injury. However, if you don't have the clip attached to your waistband and you fall backward, it won't pull the magnet off the console and you will fall on a running belt, which may then throw you off the end of the treadmill.

Mechanics

Equipment manufacturers design treadmills so they won't run unless the magnetic key is on the console. This reminds you to use the magnet as a safety feature. It also helps protect young children or pets from accidentally starting the machine when an adult isn't around. If you keep the magnetic key in a safe place, no one else can start the treadmill without your permission.

Considerations

Treadmills generally have one of two safety features: the magnetic key or an emergency stop button. The American College of Sports Medicine states that having this feature is "a safety must." However, the organization notes that the tether feature is preferred over the emergency stop button. This is because if you fall backward, you may fall too quickly to hit an emergency stop button. But if you are tethered to the machine, the magnetic key pulls out and stops the belt without you doing anything.