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Treadmill accidents can be serious, even fatal, as in the case of Mike Tyson's daughter in May 2009. If you have a treadmill in your home, you'll want to make sure you know how to use a treadmill safely. This page will help you learn how to keep your treadmill safe.
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Introduction
- A treadmill is easy to set up and use, and is a great way to get aerobic exercise in the comfort of your own home. They are machines with moving parts, however, and as with any machine, there is the potential for injury. Treadmill accidents can arise when clothing gets caught on moving parts, you trip or fall while using the machine, or you get disoriented when you stop too quickly.
Step 1: Read the Owner's Manual
- Your treadmill comes with an owner's manual which contains detailed instructions on how to use the treadmill safely. If you have misplaced the manual, or purchased a used machine without one, you can call the manufacturer and request a copy. Some manufacturers also have the manual available on their website where it can be easily downloaded. Make sure you have read and understand the safety instructions before using the treadmill.
Step 2: Locate the Treadmill in a Safe Place
- Treadmills are designed to be used by adults, not children or pets. Remember that the treadmill can be deadly if used inappropriately and secure it accordingly.
- Make sure you locate the treadmill in a room that is not accessible to small children, keeping the door shut at all times.
- If the door cannot be locked, consider securing it with a child safety door knob cover, or a hook and eye located at a height accessible to adults.
- Unplug the treadmill when not in use, and cover electrical outlets with child safety devices.
- Some treadmills have a safety clip that attaches you to the treadmill with a cable, designed to stop the treadmill if you fall. Remove the cable when not in use, and store it out of reach of your children.
Step 3: Use Your Treadmill Safely
- Before using the treadmill make sure that your clothes fit snugly, with no dangling cords. Your shoe laces should be securely tied, with no loose ends. Consider using a bluetooth headset if you're listening to music, rather than headphones with loose wires.
- Turn the machine on before stepping on the belt. Make sure that the belt is moving slowly before you step on.
- Pay attention to what's going on around you, and be prepared to use the treadmill's automatic stop button, in case children or pets approach you while you're on the machine.
- When you're not on the treadmill, it should be turned off.
- Stay in the center of the belt while running.
- Be prepared to be disoriented when you turn off the belt, making sure you have a firm grasp of the handrails in case you experience vertigo.
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