According to the Center for Disease Control, more than half of all U.S. adults are considered overweight or obese. That means that most gyms and fitness centers have members dealing with weight-related health issues, leading to an increasing number of new people joining. Gyms can breed potential health problems, especially if they don’t offer adequate safety precautions.
1- Keep Emergency Exits Unlocked
This was the most common suggestion for making a gym safer among our readers. Far too many emergency exits are locked to ensure people don’t sneak in or out during a workout. However, keeping them locked can be dangerous if there’s an emergency evacuation, as in this case. Ensure you know where all the emergency exits are located and that they’re unlocked during business hours.
2- Use Non-Slip Mats
The most common cause of injury at the gym is caused by lack of using an appropriate mat. That’s why you should always use non-slip mats around treadmills and elliptical machines. These are inexpensive and relatively easy to install on your own, which means that you’ll be able to focus on people using the equipment rather than worrying about whether or not they’re safe. Mats are also useful for protecting weight-lifting equipment from damage caused by banging weights against the floor. And don’t forget that mats are a good way of protecting your floors from wear and tear!
3- Weight Limits on Machines
Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and bodybuilding are all sports that utilize the gym. To participate in these activities, you need to be in good physical condition and lift weights. Weight lifting is a strenuous activity that can cause injuries such as muscle tears, damaged ligaments, herniated disks, and pulled muscles. If you do not know how to use the equipment at a gym properly, it can be hazardous for you and other members who want to use them in the future.
4- Touchscreen Technology that can Easily Be Cleaned
Staying fit and healthy is essential, and that means people new to the gym should not have to put up with dirty, filthy equipment. If you own a gym or health club, you can give your visitors a cleaner, healthier environment by installing touchscreen technology. The best touchscreens can be cleaned with a simple wipe-down cloth or wet wipe. This ensures that they’re always germ-free while protecting your machine from stains and bacteria. Touchscreen monitors with inadequate protection can be challenging to clean and sometimes even impossible to disinfect properly. Dirty monitors can spread germs, causing sickness among gym-goers.
5- Well-Lit Area
If you’re trying to provide a well-lit area for your gym, adding some lighting that stays on will help keep people safe. Lighting is essential if you’re offering classes at nighttime. You don’t want people having to go through your dimly lit facility at night, which could make them trip over something or cause them to hurt themselves in another way.
6- Keep Your Items in Your Locker or with You at All Times
This includes cell phones, wallets, and bags, among other items. Many gyms have experienced theft by people who leave their belongings unattended on the floor or bench while they use a machine or take a shower after their workout. Lock up valuables before leaving them for even a few minutes when possible. Keeping everything organized and clean will also help people stay safe while they’re visiting.