Tread Carefully: Treadmills a Toddler Hazard

I thought my colleague was on to something by making the most of his early-morning wake-ups with his toddler. While she settles herself with milk and Dora, he jumps on the treadmill for 45 minutes. Genius! Or not?

In yet another sign that exercise is no good for you, authorities are warning that treadmills are a serious health hazard, with more than 10 children a year in NSW alone admitted to hospital with cases of friction burn and other serious injuries. At least 30 cases in NSW had required surgery and extensive rehabilitation.

Fair Trading Minister Linda Burney recommended an education program for parents, along with a prominent warning label to be permanently fixed to all treadmills sold in the state.

Two-and-a-half years is the average age for treadmill injuries, so if you’ve got an inquisitive toddler it may be best to unplug your treadmill, or sign up to the gym.