Setting up a home gym is a great way to stay fit on your own schedule, but not every piece of equipment is as safe as it looks. Several popular workout products have been recalled over the years due to serious safety hazards. These home gym recalls weren’t just over cosmetic flaws—they involved injuries like lacerations, fractures, and in some cases, life-threatening incidents. Whether you bought your gear online, in a big-box store, or through a fitness brand, it’s worth checking your equipment. Here are eight home gym items that were pulled from the market after causing real harm.
1. Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells
The Bowflex SelectTech 1090 adjustable dumbbells were designed to replace an entire rack of weights, but things went wrong. In 2020, a recall was issued after reports that the weight plates could separate from the handle during use. This defect led to dropped weights and multiple injuries, including broken toes and foot trauma. Over 17,000 units were affected, sold through retailers like Amazon and Nautilus. If you own a pair, check for the recall notice and serial number match before using them again.
2. Peloton Tread+ Treadmills
Peloton’s Tread+ became infamous after it was linked to dozens of injuries, and tragically, one child’s death. The powerful treadmill was recalled in 2021 following reports that people, pets, and objects could be pulled under the rear roller. Despite its sleek design and smart features, the machine posed a serious hazard to homes with small children. The home gym recall affected over 125,000 units. Peloton later released a redesigned version with added safety measures, but the original model remains a cautionary tale.
3. Total Gym Wall Anchors
Total Gym’s wall anchor kits, used to mount resistance bands and pulley systems, seemed harmless at first glance. However, in 2022, the company recalled the kits after users reported the anchors detaching from the wall during workouts. This caused people to fall or be struck by elastic bands snapping back. Some suffered sprains and facial injuries from the sudden release. Poor installation instructions and hardware design were blamed for the failures.
4. Decathlon Domyos Weight Training Benches
The Domyos weight training bench, sold by Decathlon, was pulled from shelves after reports of collapsing under normal use. These benches were popular with beginners for their affordability and compact size. But faulty welds and weak frames caused several units to fail during lifting exercises, resulting in back and head injuries. The manufacturer issued a global recall and offered full refunds or replacements. It’s a reminder that budget gear isn’t always built to last—or keep you safe.
5. Cybex Smith Press Machines
Cybex is a trusted name in commercial gyms, but their Smith Press models 5340 and 5341 had a dangerous flaw. A recall was issued after multiple incidents where the barbell carriage fell unexpectedly due to a locking mechanism failure. One user suffered spinal damage, prompting the company to alert customers and gyms nationwide. While many of these were used in professional settings, some made their way into private home gyms. If you purchased commercial-grade equipment secondhand, check for recall notices.
6. ProForm and NordicTrack Exercise Bikes
ICON Health & Fitness (now iFIT), the company behind ProForm and NordicTrack, recalled certain stationary bike models due to injury risks. In 2021, the issue was with the adjustable seat post, which could loosen or break mid-ride. Riders reported sudden falls, lacerations, and even hospital visits from unexpected dismounts. The home gym recall affected thousands of units sold through online retailers and sporting goods stores. Replacement parts and repair kits were offered, but many users were unaware of the defect until it was too late.
7. Tonal Smart Home Gym Mounting Brackets
Tonal, the sleek wall-mounted smart gym system, received praise for its high-tech approach to strength training. However, in 2022, the brand recalled wall mounting brackets after it was found they could detach under strain. In a few cases, the heavy touchscreen unit fell from the wall, narrowly missing users during workouts. The company responded quickly by issuing a free reinforced bracket and installation upgrade. While injuries were limited, the risk of impact from the 150-pound device was real.
8. Resistance Bands with Door Anchors
Many no-name or generic resistance band kits sold online came with door anchors that seemed convenient, but weren’t tested properly. These anchors failed to hold tension during workouts, flying loose and hitting users in the face or chest. Several people experienced eye injuries and bruises, prompting manufacturers to pull the products from major marketplaces. With little brand oversight, these home gym recalls often fly under the radar, especially for imported products. Always look for certified safety testing on any resistance gear.
Safety First, Gains Second
A great workout shouldn’t end in the emergency room. While building a home gym is convenient, using unsafe or poorly tested gear can cost more than just money. These home gym recalls show how common it is for even well-known brands to overlook serious flaws. Always register your equipment, check for recall alerts, and inspect older gear regularly. Fitness goals matter—but not at the expense of your safety.
Have you ever experienced a close call with faulty home gym equipment? Drop your story in the comments so others can learn what to avoid before they lift, squat, or run.
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