February 21, 2022, 6:44 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
With the pandemic, many have moved their workouts into their own homes. However, caution is advised when children are in the household. Here’s how parents can prevent accidents with sports equipment and accessories.
Dumbbells, cross trainers, TRX bands: Many people stay fit at home with sports equipment. Small children also often find the training equipment interesting—sometimes with unwanted consequences. “Many parents are unaware of the risk of injury posed by these devices,” warns Monika Niehaus from the Professional Association of Pediatricians (BVKJ).
Overview
Risk of Injury from Sports Equipment for Children
Accidents with training equipment can lead to abrasions, sprains, broken bones, or even finger amputations in children. The equipment is particularly dangerous when in use. If a child’s hand gets caught in a rowing machine or cross trainer, it can quickly become hazardous.
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Store Cables Properly
When parents are training, they should ensure that their children are not behind them or nearby. For electrical devices, it’s advisable to unplug them when not in use.
In this context, cables should also be stored properly, as they are a potential hazard. Small children could accidentally strangle themselves with the cables of sports equipment, warns pediatrician Niehaus. If families have the option to lock away the equipment, they should do so.
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Sports Equipment Is Not a Playground
Clear rules are helpful: Sports equipment is not a playground and is off-limits to little ones. Even “smaller” sports aids should not be in children’s hands. For example, TRX bands can cause injuries if children use them as swings.
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Exercise Caution Even with Older Children
By the way, older children can also injure themselves on home gym equipment. Niehaus points out that some devices require a minimum weight to function safely. If a teenager wants to try out the rowing machine or fitness bands, parents should provide guidance or supervise their child during training.
With material from dpa