Going to the gym should be an activity that can help you strengthen your body. However, accidents can happen at any time, and gyms are commonly where slips and falls can happen because of all the sweat that may make the floor wet or due to improperly placed gym equipment. Adamson & Cleveland (https://adamsoncleveland.com/slip-and-fall-lawyer/) note that slips and falls account for more than 1 million emergency room visits annually, with most deaths occurring in the 65 to 84 age group. You can prevent these accidents by following our tips on how to stay safe at the gym:
Know your Equipment
Some gym equipment doesn’t require Einstein-level IQ to learn, but some requires extensive knowledge. If you are not sure how to use the equipment, don’t hesitate to ask your trainer. If there are no trainers around, ask staff members. If necessary, ask them to show you how to use the equipment properly. It is best for your safety. Plus, it is good to know the proper way to handle the equipment, so you don’t feel uncomfortable while working out.
Use Clips on Your Free Weights
Some gyms notice that many of the people who work out fail to use safety clips on their weights. Those clips are there for a reason, so use them. Safety clips are there to prevent the weights from falling or sliding around. It can cause injury to you and other individuals within the area if the plates were to slide off the bar mid-lift.
Stay Within Your Limits
Sometimes, individuals who go to the gym do so because they want to show off. Some feel like everybody in the gym is watching them while they work out. As a result, they often show off and do more than their actual capabilities. When you do this, you open yourself up to tons of possible injuries. If you are unsure of how much you can do, start with low weight and gradually work your way up. If you haven’t done any explosive exercises that require flexibility like boxing, then don’t jump right to it. If you are just getting back to your routine, engage in progressive exercises first.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
When working out in a gym, you have to keep in mind that you are not alone. A gym can have tons of people working out alongside you. Make sure that you stay mindful of your surroundings. Don’t throw medicine balls or toss kettle bells as if you are the only one there. Before starting, ensure that you are not taking up too much space.
Don’t Forget to Check Your Equipment Before Using It
It will not take too much of your time to ensure that your equipment is secure. When doing an incline barbell press, make sure the safety clips are in place. Other equipment checks you can do include checking the seat lock, ensuring the weight selector pin is completely pushed in, and checking if the pulleys have any noticeable damage.
Don’t Work Out if You’re Sick
If you feel sick, don’t work out. Skipping a workout is not the end of the world. If you continue working out if you are feeling dizzy or nauseous, it may cause more harm, not only for you but for other individuals in the gym. Don’t forget to listen to your body. Are your symptoms due to a workout? Identify the possible source of your sickness.
When working out, thinking about your safety is paramount. Aside from your security, you also have to consider the safety of those around you. Your workout should be something that will make you stronger and healthier. Hence, it must not be the reason why you will be sidelined indefinitely.
