Gym Accident Claims

Going to the gym is an ideal opportunity to improve your health and fitness. However, the potential risks in this setting can lead to severe accidents and injuries. These include faulty equipment, inadequate training and support and slips on wet surfaces.

If you suffer any harm due to the negligence of the gym owner or an employee, you could be entitled to make a gym accident claim. You could receive compensation for your pain, suffering, and related financial expenses.

The solicitors we work with have completed accident claims for many victims of gym injuries. They have the skill and experience to prove gym owner negligence and its impact on your life to secure maximum gym accident compensation.

For a free case assessment, call 0800 470 0474 today or use our online claim form to request a call back.

Find out if you can claim

Call 0800 470 0474 now or request a call back below:

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By submitting this form you agree to be contacted by our partners. Find out how we handle your data in our privacy policy. With no win no fee you typically pay 25% of your compensation if your claim is successful, but the fee can vary. Termination fees may apply if you fail to co-operate with your solicitor.

Table of Contents

• Can I make a gym accident claim?
• What proof will be needed to make a successful gym accident claim?
• Common accidents in the gym
• Common injuries for which you could claim compensation
• The law protecting gym users
• UKactive code of practice
• Can I claim gym injury compensation as an employee?
• Can I still make a gym injury claim if I signed a waiver?
• How much is a gym injury compensation claim worth?
• What are the time limits to start a claim for a gym injury?
• Can I make a no win no fee claim for my injuries?
• Benefits of using a personal injury solicitor

Can I make a gym accident claim?

You might be eligible to claim compensation if you suffered an accident in a gym due to someone else’s negligence. The easiest way to find out if you could make a claim is through a free consultation with a legal adviser. They will ask you a few questions about your accident to determine whether:

• Another party, such as the gym’s employer, owed you a duty of care
• They breached their duty by acting negligently
• Their negligence caused an accident at the gym
• You suffered an injury and other potential damages as a result

Your solicitor will be able to prove a duty of care by referring to the relevant legislation. Once liability is assessed, they will contact the other party and let them know you plan to claim gym injury compensation. Your solicitor will also help you gather all the evidence you need to support your case. You can read more about the proof you can use in the section below.

What proof will be needed to make a successful gym accident claim?

To make a successful compensation claim following a gym accident, you must prove that the gym operator or owner’s neglect caused your suffering. To prove liability, your solicitor will work to demonstrate that they breached their duty of care towards you by gathering supporting evidence.

You can help your solicitor by providing as much proof as possible. Things you can do to help with the claims process include:

• You should visit your GP, the A&E, or a minor injuries unit as soon as possible after the accident. Your medical record will prove the severity of your injuries, the care you received, and your recovery timeframe;
• If your injuries have long-term implications, you can use copies of treatment and recovery plans and costs to claim for related financial losses;
• Take the names and contact details of anyone who saw you get injured at the gym. Witness statements of the accident can help strengthen your claim if there are liability disputes;
• Take photographs or a video of faulty gym equipment or hazardous environments that contributed to your injury;
• Take photos of any visible harm, such as lacerations or bruises, and of any damage to your items;
• If CCTV cameras captured the accident, you have the right to ask for a copy of the footage;
• All gyms must keep an accident book. You should report your accident to the gym staff and request a signed copy of the report to support your case;
• Keep a journal of the accident, the injuries you suffered and your recovery;
• Try to secure copies of the gym’s maintenance records and engineer reports confirming malfunctioning equipment;
• Keep any financial evidence of related losses, such as receipts and invoices.

Once they have gathered this evidence, your solicitor will build your gym injury claim against the defendant. They will then begin to negotiate your settlement with a constant aim to secure the highest gym injury compensation possible.

Common accidents in the gym

Some of the most common causes of injuries in gyms include accidents on cardio machines such as treadmills, cross-trainers and rowing machines, as well as complications with weight lifting.

Some injuries happen because the gym does not provide users with adequate training on machinery, whereas others occur because of defective equipment. The most common incidents that may entitle you to start a gym accident claim include:

• Faulty pieces of equipment which do not work as they are supposed to or break down mid-use
• Inadequate training or support given for heavy equipment and weights
• Slips, trips or falls on wet surfaces and obstructions
• Dangerous body movements or excessively repeated exercises while under the supervision of gym staff
• Poorly maintained or designed equipment
• Falling objects like poorly secured or stored weights, dumbbells, or other equipment
• Lack of clear warning signs or instructions
• Equipment that is not assembled or installed correctly
• Treadmills that miss safety features

It is your solicitor’s job to prove that the injuries suffered in your gym accident were the defendant’s fault. They will do this through compiling evidence and supporting documents to substantiate your claim. Whether you have suffered broken ribs, a back injury or tendon damage, your solicitor will ensure you receive the amount of compensation you deserve.

Common injuries for which you could claim compensation

An accident at a gym could cause various injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common ones seen in gym injury compensation claims include:

• Muscle sprains and strains. Overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons due to excessive exertion or improper form;
• Ligament damage. Injuries to the bands of connective tissue that support joints, often caused by sudden movements or excessive stress;
• Cuts and abrasions. Superficial injuries to the skin caused by contact with sharp gym equipment or rough surfaces;
• Lacerations. These are more severe cuts or tears in the skin that may require stitches or medical attention;
• Back injuries. Strains, sprains, or disc issues in the back resulting from heavy lifting or improper technique.
• Spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spinal cord, which can have significant and lasting effects on mobility and sensation, including paralysis;
• Crush injuries. Injuries that occur when body parts, such as fingers or toes, are caught between heavy gym equipment or weights and can result in severe damage to tissues and bones;
• Fractures. Broken bones can happen for various reasons, such as falls or falling equipment and may need surgery and extensive recovery;
• Dislocations. These injuries occur when the ends of two connected bones are forced out of their regular positions at a joint and often affect the shoulders, elbows, or knees;
• Neck injuries. Injuries to the neck muscles, ligaments, or discs, which can be due to improper form or acute trauma;
• Head injuries. Trauma to the head, ranging from mild concussions to more severe brain injuries, often from falls or malfunctioning equipment.

If you were injured in a gym due to someone else’s negligence, it is your legal right to make a personal injury claim. The type of injury you suffered following an accident will determine how much compensation you could receive.

The law protecting gym users

There are no specific laws in place that focus on the safety requirements for gyms. However, the Occupiers Liability Act 1957 also applies to gyms and protects users from potential risks. Under this Act, the owner or occupier of the premises must take all reasonable measures to protect visitors from injury at the gym.

They should do the following to ensure they comply with the acceptable levels of safety and the risk of injury is minimised:

• Install, maintain and assess all equipment in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines;
• Hire a suitably qualified professional to carry out all necessary repairs;
• Purchase all the equipment from reliable sources that follow UK laws and regulations
• Locate the equipment in an area that is suitable and free from dangers
• Immediately remove any malfunctioning equipment or machines
• Provide all gym users with access to advice from staff about how to use all equipment correctly
• Make offers of tutorials, inductions and exercise advice to users
• Display written signage with instructions for gym use and safety
• Keep thorough records of user inductions, as well as a user-signed copy of the gym rules

When it comes to claims related to equipment maintenance, you must show that the gym operator has failed to carry out routine inspections and maintenance tasks as required. Your solicitor will request a copy of the gym owner’s maintenance records to prove liability. They may also seek expert advice from an engineer to determine whether it is reasonable to assume that the owner did not fully carry out their legal duty.

If you can prove liability, you can start a gym accident compensation claim, regardless of the cause of your injuries.

UKactive code of practice

Further to the legislation, UK gyms are expected to comply with the UKactive Code of Practice. This non-profit organisation promotes safe exercise and good health throughout the country. This code of practice details that gyms are obliged to comply with the laws laid out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Thus, they should:

• Ensure the health and safety of staff and visitors through proper risk assessments
• Hire qualified and certified fitness professionals and instructors
• Provide high-quality customer service
• Keep equipment and facilities clean and to a high standard
• Conduct regular maintenance checks
• Enforce strict hygiene standards in all communal areas
• Ensure access and facilities for individuals with disabilities to promote inclusivity
• Establish clear emergency plans in case of accidents
• Enforce codes of conduct for staff and members to encourage respectful and safe behaviour within the gym

If you were injured in a gym accident, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced solicitor will assess your case and determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim. For a free consultation, do not hesitate to call 0800 470 0474 or use our online claim form to request a call back.

Can I claim gym injury compensation as an employee?

Gym employees are also able to claim compensation for an accident if there was a breach of duty. If your employer was responsible for your accident by acting negligently, they are liable for damages.

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 makes it a legal obligation for employers to protect the safety of employees. To do this, they must ensure that:

• All equipment is thoroughly maintained and kept in a safe condition;
• They carry out regular and thorough risk assessments to ensure that the gym complies with the acceptable levels of safety and that the risk of injury is minimised;
• Floors are free from hazards such as trailing cables, obstructions and spillages that could cause slips, trips and falls;
• Employees receive the necessary training and instructions on how to use the equipment safely;
• They provide protective equipment like gloves or safety goggles, if necessary.

These are just some of the responsibilities your employer has to keep you safe at work. If they neglected them and you had an accident due to a breach of duty, you may be able to start a work accident claim.

Can I still make a gym injury claim if I signed a waiver?

Many gyms ask members to sign a waiver when they purchase a gym membership. However, this will not absolve them of the legal responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment. Waivers only protect gyms if you are injured in an accident because you did not use the equipment responsibly.

Under the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977, gyms are still liable for compensation if an accident occurs due to negligence. If you sustained an injury after signing a waiver, the easiest way to find out if you have a valid case is to seek legal advice. A specialist personal injury solicitor will be able to determine if the gym was negligent and help you claim compensation.

How much is a gym injury compensation claim worth?

The compensation awarded to you will depend on how severe your injury is, how it affects your current life and how it may impact you in the future.

Your solicitor will have a wealth of experience in successfully processing gym injury claims. As such, they will be skilled in demonstrating the impact the gym owner’s negligence has caused you. To secure the highest settlement award possible, they will seek to highlight two types of damages:

General damages are awarded for the subjective losses caused by the accident, such as:

• Your physical injuries
• Any emotional impact that it has had on you
• Loss of consortium or companionship
• Effects on your hobbies and social life
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Your overall quality of life

General damages are calculated based on historical cases and the guidelines offered by the Judicial College. You can refer to our injury compensation calculator to see how much you could receive if your claim is successful.

Special damages are awarded for the financial losses and expenses stemming from your accident, such as:

• Any loss of earnings you have suffered (as well as any future loss of earning capacity)
• The cost of any treatments you need
• Transport costs to attend doctor appointments
• Medical aids and equipment
• Physical therapy and counselling
• Costs of care and assistance with daily tasks

To find out if you have a valid personal injury claim, call 0800 470 0474 today for a free case assessment. This service is provided entirely free of charge, and you are under no obligation to proceed.

What are the time limits to start a claim for a gym injury?

If you have been injured at a gym because of negligence, you have to keep in mind that there are strict time limits to start your claim. Under the Limitation Act 1980, you have three years to begin legal proceedings from the date of your accident. After this point, your case will be statute-barred, and the court will no longer accept it as valid.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

• If a minor suffered a gym injury, the three-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday. Before that, a parent or legal guardian could claim on their behalf.
• There is no claim limitation date if the injured person lacks the mental capacity to claim for a gym injury. That could be due to the gym accident itself or a pre-existing condition like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. A litigation friend could claim compensation for them at any time.
• If you have been the victim of an assault or another violent crime at the gym, you could claim through the CICA. The time limit is two years after the incident.
• You have seven years to claim through the AFCS for injuries sustained in a gym while serving in the military.
• If you lost a loved one in a gym accident, you could make a compensation claim within three years of their death.

While three years may seem like a long time, we advise you to start the injury claims process as soon as possible. That will make it a lot easier to gather evidence and secure the maximum gym accident compensation possible.

Can I make a no win no fee claim for my injuries?

If you have grounds to sue a gym, one of our personal injury lawyer partners will offer you a 100% no win no fee* service. That means you do not have to worry about paying them anything upfront. Furthermore, your solicitor only receives a success fee (up to 25%) if they secure the compensation you deserve. Otherwise, you do not pay them anything. This service is free of risks and takes all the financial worries out of the picture.

If you make a no win no fee claim, you do not have to worry about litigation costs either. Your solicitor will make sure you have After the Event (ATE) insurance, which covers all your expenses and disbursements if you lose the gym injury claim, such as:

• Police and medical reports
• Court fees
• Expert witness fees
• Costs of printing and copying
• Related travel expenses
• Barrister fees, if necessary

Most importantly, the ATE policy will also cover all the costs incurred by the defendant, including their solicitor fees. Without the ATE policy, you would be liable for these costs if your claim is lost. You only pay the ATE premium if your case is successful, so you will never be out of pocket if you make a no win no fee gym injury claim.

Benefits of using a personal injury solicitor

If you want to make a gym injury compensation claim, having legal representation will maximise your chances of success. Furthermore, your solicitor will also know exactly how much your claim is worth. They will negotiate to secure the best compensation payout for your accident.

There are many benefits of using a lawyer to claim personal injury compensation. If they take on your claim, they will:

• Review the case thoroughly with you and answer all your questions
• Arrange for a free, independent medical review
• Help you gather all the evidence you need to build a strong claim
• Handle all communication and legal aspects of the case on your behalf
• Provide advice and support every step of the way
• Keep you updated on the progress of your case
• Offer you a no win no fee service, so there will be no financial risk to you

To find out if you have a valid case and how much compensation you may be entitled to, call 0800 470 0474 today to speak to a legal adviser. Alternatively, you can request a call back using the claim form below.

Last edited on 7th Feb 2025

With over 15 years’ experience in the legal sector, Nicholas Tate (LLB Hons, LLM in Health Law) has extensive experience across all areas of personal injury and medical negligence claims.