Creating a safe environment in your gym is one of the most critical issues you face as a gym owner. . Preventing injuries in the gym can be challenging, especially given that most people going to the gym may not be well-versed in safety. Gym owners can take some steps to prevent injuries and create a workout space that helps members achieve their goals.
Managing a gym comes with many responsibilities to reduce the chances of injury for your clients and staff. Besides the safety of your members and trainers, injuries in the gym can cause liability issues, impact your insurance and your reputation, and can cost you money.
The primary focus areas include:
- How to prevent injuries
- How to deal with an injury when it happens
- How to help an injured client as a trainer
Best Practices for Injury Prevention
An effective injury prevention plan in the gym should begin by determining potential injury hazards. Gym managers should conduct a comprehensive risk assessment in the following areas:
- Identifying hazards – Conduct regular walkthroughs to inspect the state of your equipment. Over time, gym equipment can wear out due to prolonged use. Weights, bars, and benches may be damaged due to mishandling or misuse, so gym managers should always identify which equipment could cause injury. Create a safety checklist to stay on top of repairs.
- Ensuring all facilities are clean and safe – Most gym goers tend to group around specific popular exercises, especially in weight training. Upper body exercises are very popular, and equipment used for these exercises is used most often. However, it is essential to ensure ALL facilities are clean and safe, even those that are not frequently used.
- Body awareness – The common notion that daily workouts will lead to faster growth and strength gains is not only false, but is one of the leading causes of injury. Gym managers should always remind clients to listen to their bodies. Experts say a day or two of rest in between training sessions is most effective, as they give the body ample time to recover from a grueling workout.
- Ensuring clients follow instructions – Gyms usually have simple rules designed to ensure everyone goes home with all the gains and none of the injuries. The instructions should be displayed for everyone to see to reinforce accountability and create a safer space for everyone. National Gym Supply sells signage to remind members to stay safe in the gym. Gym instructions can include the following:
- Ensuring weights are securely locked before any exercise
- Re-racking weights after every session
- Returning equipment to its original location
- Ensuring adequate space between benches and other equipment
- Wearing the correct workout attire when in the gym
- Correct spotting at all times
Managing Injuries in the Gym
Injuries can still occur even with the proper preventive measures. Trainers and gym managers should have a plan of action in case a client is injured to give first aid before additional medical attention.
First aid skills can make a big difference when dealing with an injury at the gym. Trainers with first aid training can offer initial assistance in case a client is injured by treating minor injuries. Keep first aid supplies on hand so that trainers, managers or other members can effectively respond better and faster to assist an injured client.
Best Practices If a Client Is Injured
If a client has an open wound, torn muscle, or sprained joint, they should stop their workout immediately to allow first aid. If the client can move, find a place to examine them and determine the care they require.
Do not give any medication outside your scope, but you can give them water if they feel thirsty. Depending on the nature of the injury, you can follow the RICE method:
Rest – Stop the workout, as sudden movements can increase swelling or bleeding.
Ice – Use an ice pack to relieve pain and reduce inflammation around the injury.
Compression – Bandage the injured region above and below the injury. Overlap each layer to restrict movement if you’re dealing with a fracture.
Elevation – Elevate the injured areas on a chair or pillow. Use a sling if the client’s arm is injured.
If the client has an open wound, ensure you clean the wound, bandage it in a sterile environment, and monitor for any changes that may require medical care. In the case of a more serious injury, call 911. Do not move the client but instead wait for EMTs to arrive.
Post-Injury Recommendations
When an injury occurs at the gym, take the opportunity to make changes to prevent future occurrences. Investigate the injury and the circumstances surrounding it. Some critical questions to find out more include:
- Where did the injury occur? Did the injury occur at the gym or in the general vicinity?
- How serious is the injury?
- Is the injury related to a client’s underlying condition?
- What kind of changes to gym repairs or maintenance should be implemented to avoid future injuries?
Documenting the causes and nature of the injury helps formulate guidelines for emergency response and reduce the likelihood of future injuries. The gym is a space for personal growth and development, and ensuring safety by reducing injuries is vital in meeting your clients’ needs. Gym managers should continually strive to ensure the gym is safe and that all clients follow the rules to prevent injuries.
