Many of us are setting goals for a healthier, more active lifestyle in 2025.

You might find yourself in a gym for the first time, or the first time in a long time. But before you hit the treadmill or try to set a deadlift PR, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks.

Unfortunately, even the most careful gym-goers can suffer injuries, and understanding who is responsible for your safety is essential if something goes wrong.

 I Got Hurt at the Gym — Whose Fault is It?

In general, gyms are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for their members. This means the equipment should be in good condition, floors clean and dry, and things like broken equipment or wet floors taken care of ASAP. If a gym fails to maintain a safe environment and that failure contributes to your injury, the gym may be liable.

For example, if a treadmill malfunctions and causes you to fall, the gym could be held accountable if it failed to repair or replace the faulty equipment. Similarly, if you trip over an object left on the floor, or someone was mopping and it wasn’t properly marked, the gym may be at fault. However, if you try to run a four minute mile your first day there and sprain your ankle — you’ll likely have less of a case.

To avoid getting hurt, always listen to your body, follow proper technique, and don’t push yourself beyond your physical limits. You’ll reach your fitness goals much quicker if you go slow and steady.

Product Liability at the Gym

However, if the equipment itself is defective or malfunctions and causes you harm, the manufacturer of the equipment could be liable.

If a machine at the gym breaks or malfunctions, the manufacturer is responsible for defects in design, manufacturing, or warning. For instance, if a weight bench collapses because of a design flaw, the company that made the equipment could be held responsible for your injuries.

What if Someone Else Hurts Me at the Gym?

While gyms are typically designed to minimize risk, the behavior of other gym-goers can still lead to accidents. For example, if someone is not re-racking weights or behaves recklessly like throwing down weights without checking their surroundings, they could be partially liable if their actions contribute to your injury. Plus, if a personal trainer’s advice or instructions lead to an injury (like recommending improper lifting techniques or pushing you to lift weights beyond your ability), the trainer could be held liable for the injury. It’s also important that the trainer is certified and has adequate experience to guide you safely through workouts.

Staying Safe and Healthy in 2025

If you’ve been hurt at a gym because of carelessness or dangerous conditions, our team of skilled personal injury lawyers is ready to assist you. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation to talk about your situation and see what legal choices you have. We hope you have a safe and happy start to the new year!