Gym and Fitness Center Accidents

People frequent gyms and fitness centers in an effort to improve their overall health and up their fitness game. In addition to other gym patrons and staff, there is a great deal of exercise equipment and hazardous conditions that may lead to accidents if not addressed and the areas are not properly maintained.

Getting injured is an increasingly common occurrence in gyms. Gym patrons or guests can slip and fall on slippery surfaces, get injured using faulty gym equipment, or have an accident on a staircase or elevator.

Common Types of Gym Accidents and How to Avoid Them

• Malfunctioning Equipment: Gyms contain equipment, like elliptical machines, treadmills, spinning bikes, or weight lifting machines that, if not properly maintained, can lead to any number of injuries. Make sure that the equipment you use to work out is properly maintained and in good functioning order before you use it. If you are unsure of how the equipment should be used, consult gym staff on the proper use to avoid injuries. If lifting heavy free weights consider asking staff or other patrons to provide you with a “spot.”

• High Intensity Exercise Classes: There are many classes like CrossFit, boot camps, or spinning classes that may increase the risk of injury if you do not exercise regularly. While keeping up with the instructor is an unspoken rule during these types of classes, you must go at your own safe pace. Particularly if you suffer from health or physical problems that affect your ability to exercise at an intense level, seek medical approval to engage in strenuous exercise and go slow until you build endurance.

• Infections: Gyms and pools are magnets for bacteria that spread quickly and infect people. Wipe down gym equipment before and after use and use flip flops or water shoes in showers and locker rooms. Common infections like athlete’s foot, warts, and waterborne infections are prevalent in most gyms. Remember to shower before and after using the pool.

• Slip and Falls: Gyms and pools are wet and it is easy to slip and fall if patrons do not pay attention to hazards. The same is true for accidents on stairwells or from malfunctioning elevators. There is also a lot of equipment, like free weights and other items on the floor, that can be a hazard. Be mindful and aware of your surroundings.

Gyms Owe a Duty of Care to Patrons

Gyms owe a duty of care to patrons and visitors of their premises. If a fitness center fails to adequately maintain the equipment and/or fails to fix or warn of hazards, and a patron or guest is injured as a result, the gym may be liable to the injured party for his or her injuries.

Injured in a Gym or Fitness Center? Contact Atlanta’s Premises Liability Lawyers

If you are injured at a gym or fitness center, contact Atlanta’s Premises Liability Lawyers at Cash, Krugler & Fredericks to schedule a free consultation to examine your case and discuss your options.

Atlanta Law Firm Cash, Krugler & Fredericks represents victims of serious injuries because of the negligence or intentional misconduct of others. Specializing in auto and trucking accidents, spinal cord injuries, elevator accidents, brain injuries, medical malpractice, defective products, and premise liability matters, we can help you. Contact the Atlanta Law Firm Cash Krugler & Fredericks to schedule a comprehensive of your claim or call us at (404) 659-1710.