High-intensity workouts such as TRX and spin are all the rage right now. However, new research suggests that injuries sustained at the gym can be just as dangerous as being in a car accident. Data collected in an emergency department case-series from 1999-2013 found that 35.2% of all injuries from fitness facilities were caused by overexertion and 52.6% were related to general free weight activities.
If you are not involved in high-intensity workouts or suspension training, then you probably don’t have much to worry about. However, for those who frequent those tough spin classes and TRX suspension classes should take caution and avoid overexertion, falling and even kidney damage.
Spin Class-Induced Rhabdomyolysis
A study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that stationary cycling classes can increase the risk of kidney damage and may result in rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition that occurs when severe muscle trauma causes muscles to break down and release into the bloodstream. The results found that exertional rhabdomyolysis can happen even after your first spin class. One patient in the study developed biopsy-proven acute kidney injury that required a hemodialysis, a machine that is used to filter blood in your kidneys.
Rhabdomyolysis is typically found in victims of crush injuries such as car accidents. Luckily, for half of those who have rhabdomyolysis, the injury should go away on its own, but for those with severe damage, symptoms of a more serious problem include dark urine, nausea, weakness and muscle aches. Complications from rhabdomyolysis can result in cardiac arrest and renal failure.
Overdosing on Exercise
Suspension training and CrossFit classes are also very risky because they involve a high-intensity cardio and muscle workout. This is an amazing cardiovascular workout for anyone who wants to put emphasis on core and functional training. The dangers in TRX classes lurk in the suspension training and core balance aspect of this workout. Classes have an element of danger because participants are often instructed to do lunges while having their feet looped into a suspension rope. For the unbalanced amateur, this can be extremely risky.
Lunges, chest presses, and one-legged squats can also easily lead to overexertion on muscles. Fabio Coimanam, a scientist at American Council on Exercise said in a New York Times article, “A segment of the population doesn’t have joint integrity and the ability to stabilize their entire body,” he said. So instead of using their core, they use the wrong muscles, aggravating their risk for injury.” Comana places a lot of emphasis on the benefits of the activity but also urges only the well trained or experienced to take part in suspension training.
Other Gym Hazards and Risks
57 million Americans had gym memberships in 2016 and that number won’t be slowing down anytime soon. In fact, there seems to be a rising trend in the number of memberships purchased each year in the U.S. If you’re not doing high-intensity workouts, there are still obstacles that should be avoided at all costs that can save you from a serious injury. Weightlifting machines should be used with caution to avoid serious strain on muscles or back injuries. In addition, slips, trips, and falls are very common in workout facilities. Avoid carrying heavy equipment and make sure if your jumping that the area within an arm’s length radius is clear of people and other equipment.
Infections are also another serious risk you run when hitting the gym. Always protect open wounds and wipe down communal equipment before and after a workout. This is the best way to ensure bacteria and other germs won’t be lurking near you. Cardio equipment, weights, and yoga mats are breeding grounds for bacteria so always keep a clean towel handy and take advantage of antibacterial sprays your gym should supply.
Unqualified Machinery and Trainers
Malfunctioning equipment is another less likely risk you take when hitting the gym but nonetheless still something to always keep in mind. Regardless of your level of skill, if a product is old and defective, you will run a high risk for a serious injury. Gym staff should regularly maintain machines and inspect them – always keep in mind they are used by hundreds of members every month and will deteriorate over time.
The unfortunate reality is that fitness trainer certifications can be easily obtained online. Not only can an unqualified trainer be less effective, but they leave you at a high risk for injuries. Always ask to see an instructor’s certifications before hiring a personal trainer or signing up for a workout class.
If you do suffer injury or illness – whether it was caused by a defective product or unqualified trainer – it’s always advisable to seek advice from a personal injury lawyer on steps you can take following a gym injury. Liability waivers make it tricky to hold these facilities accountable but, an experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and help fight to make sure any damages are recovered.