The growing exercise movement has encouraged us to practice anywhere. Therefore, many people decide to buy a treadmill at home.
Children often imitate their parents and want to use the treadmill. However, this device is really powerful and contains potential dangers.
So, what age can a kid go on a treadmill? Children from 12 to 13 years old can use this device. Yet, you should check the user manual to be on the safe side.
To learn more about this issue, continue reading the article below!
Table of Contents
Treadmill Dangers For Kids
The fat boy is exercising
Studies have shown that children under the age of 16 are more likely to experience injury when using a home treadmill.
When children move unnoticed near the appliance, the moving belt can get caught in their hair, clothes, or small fingers.
The relentless movement of the belt will cause friction, burns, or serious injury to children. Things get worse when no one detects and stops the device early.
About 3.5% of all burns in children are friction burns. Many cases are so severe that doctors have to order plastic surgery or skin grafts.
This number is not small when up to a quarter of treadmill accidents are of high severity, and half of them require the intervention of cutlery.
What Age Can You Go On A Treadmill?
Many brands recommend that children must be from 12 or 13 years old to use their products under parental supervision.
There will be different requirements for children’s use of the treadwheel at certain age milestones.
You should let your kids play outside more
Below Age 11
Any child this age should stay away from this sports equipment.
At the age of 11, children often tend to be curious and want to learn about everything around them. Therefore, your kid will touch or put their hands in holes or moving objects that attract eyes.
As a result, hundreds to thousands of children are hospitalized with severe finger and skin injuries each year.
The treadmill should be one of the taboos like electricity or fire to prevent such bad scenarios. Please avoid any potential accident so that you will not regret it.
You should pay attention to the position of the cross-trainer when deciding to buy a product for the home.
The ideal area to set up a treadwheel is a private, enclosed, locked room. If the space is open, consider unplugging and removing the safety key when not in use.
Parents should also explain to their children the dangers of treadmills before installing them.
Ages 12 to 13
At this age, you can consider letting your child use a treadmill if they are mature and responsible. Parents must always be around and supervise at all times.
There will be times when you can’t keep an eye on your child. At this point, what matters is their commitment.
Ages 14 And Above
A child over 14 years old who is mature enough to use the treadwheel under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
Exercising early on can be a good habit and beneficial for health. Treadmills come in handy, and your child needs a daily exercise routine.
Treadmill Safety Rules
Prevention is still better than cure. If you own a treadmill at home, pay attention to some basic safety guidelines below.
How to use the treadwheel safely
Locking The Device When Not In Use
Disable the treadwheel when you are away from home or not using the device. Some simple methods are to unplug or lock the device so your child can’t start it.
If your appliance requires a cord or safety key to start, keep it out of the reach of children.
Teaching Your Children
If your child is old enough to use a cross-trainer, instruct them carefully on the operation and safety features of the device.
You can refer to the method instructions in the user manual that the manufacturer attached. Show your child how to disconnect the machine when there is a problem.
Making The Device Safer To Use
To prevent the risk of children falling after a workout, leave a large enough space and put a rubber mat underneath.
You should bundle power cords neatly when not in use or thread the cord through the holes to prevent children from accessing them.
Always fold and store the unit upright when not in use for folding treadmills. Do not let your child hang around in this area, as the appliance can fall from above.
If you want more visual tutorials, check out the following video.
Conclusion
As we know, children from 12 years can use the device. So, children younger than this age should not be used to avoid possible dangers.
Once your child reaches a certain age and becomes aware enough, you can let them use the device under supervision. The important thing here is that you need to watch your little one.
Good day, readers! My name is Jason Gwinn, a 35 years old man who specializes in physical fitness. With 15 years of experience being a personal trainer, I will help you conquer the fitness challenges. Besides guiding you through my unique workouts, I can also help you choose the best fitness equipment to assist you in achieving your goals and exercise regimen.
