Are Treadmills More Dangerous Than You Think?
THE RISKS OF USING A TREADMILL
Using a treadmill properly means much more than wearing good shoes and downloading your favorite workout tunes. Treadmill safety came into the spotlight when David Goldberg, the husband of Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg, died after falling on a treadmill and hitting his head. While the reasons behind the fall are not clear, the tragedy has brought into focus treadmill injuries, which are surprisingly common.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that there were 24,400 treadmill injuries in 2014. Between 2003 and 2012, there have been 30 deaths associated with treadmill use. These injuries are due in part to tripping on fast-moving belts, becoming tangled in cords (a particular danger for children) and losing balance.
The treadmill can be an effective exercise tool if used appropriately and if some preparation is done before a workout. Following are some safety tips you should keep in mind when using a treadmill:
SPEAK WITH YOUR DOCTOR
Before beginning any exercise routine, speak with your doctor. Not only can your physician help you determine the appropriate level and intensity of your work out, but he or she can help you create an overall health care plan to help you reach your fitness goals.
SECURE LOOSE OBJECTS
Be sure that objects such as cell phones, music players, magazines and television remotes are in a secure position. Loose objects can create a tripping hazard. In addition, if you drop an object, such as the television remote, do not try to retrieve it while the belt is in motion. Slow down and pause the belt, retrieve the object, then slowly reactivate the belt
FOCUS ON YOUR WORKOUT
A workout on the treadmill is not the best time to return multiple phone calls, catch up on e-mails or tweet.
USE THE SAFETY SWITCH
Treadmills come with a safety switch – one end is attached to the user and the other remains on the treadmill. If the user falls, trips, or the switch is disconnected, the treadmill stops. It is also important to know where the emergency shut off / stop is located on the treadmill.
DON’T GRAB THE ARM SUPPORTS
If you do happen to fall, grabbing the arm rails may not be the best course of action. Often, grabbing these supports can cause more injury or a serious arm strain. If you do fall on a treadmill, it is better to allow yourself to “roll off” than to try to pull yourself up by the handrails.
ROOM TO STRETCH
Where is your treadmill located? If you have a treadmill at home, make sure it is not pushed into a corner of the room. Be sure there is enough adequate space to complete your workout without worrying about clutter or having the treadmill in a corner.
Of course, the risks of being injured on a treadmill should not discourage you from starting (or continuing) a regular exercise routine. Regular exercise remains one of the most effective ways to combat disease and live a healthier life. Speak with your doctor about ways you can improve your health with daily exercise.
