Many rec centers offer gymnastics classes as an affordable way to learn this Olympic sport. Gymnastics classes are popular among people of all ages, from toddlers through adults. Keep these four tips in mind before you start using any of the gymnastics equipment at your community rec center.
Waiting for Supervision
Avoid using equipment in the rec center unless there is a coach or instructor in the room. The coach or instructor should be there to examine and set up the equipment for you. Waiting for a coach or instructor allows you to have an experienced person ready to spot you or attend to you if you experience an injury.
Checking Out the Equipment
Avoid using any equipment in the rec center until you or your coach has taken the time to thoroughly check it out. The gymnastics equipment may be used by dozens of people on a daily basis. All of that use can lead to wear and tear that can damage the equipment. If you see any loose screws, cracked bolts, missing nuts or splintered wood, it is important to contact the rec center’s maintenance division so that the equipment can be removed until it is able to be repaired.
Being Injured on Workout Equipment
Even if you were supervised during your gymnastics workout and you thoroughly examined the equipment before using it, it is still possible that you could become injured. Professionals, like those at Bennett and Sharp PLLC, realize that this happens more often than most would think. The equipment could have had a fault in a place that you could not easily see. In some cases, equipment can suddenly break. If you get injured while doing gymnastics at the rec center, seek treatment and consider finding legal representation to protect your rights.
Cleaning the Equipment
After using the equipment in a rec center, it is a common courtesy to clean anything that you have touched. Cold and flu viruses can be left on the equipment. Sweat and oils from your hands can interact with the wood and metal. If you moved any of the equipment, return it to the position that it was in when you arrived.
Rec centers are often understaffed and under-funded. It is your responsibility and right to check out any equipment before you begin your gymnastics workout or class. If you spot a problem or become injured, report the incident as soon as possible. Keeping the equipment in good condition allows more people to have the opportunity to enjoy the gymnastics resources and classes at the community rec center.