Peloton Slams ‘Misleading’ Advice For Treadmill Owners With Small Children To Stop Using Machine

Peloton has slammed the warning issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advising owners of the brand’s Tread+ that have small children to stop using the exercising machine following the death of a child that was linked to the treadmill.

On Saturday, the agency released a statement about a potential safety hazard involving the exercise equipment amid a reported 39 incidents.

“CPSC staff believes the Peloton Tread+ poses serious risks to children for abrasions, fractures, and death,” the agency said in a statement.

“In light of multiple reports of children becoming entrapped, pinned, and pulled under the rear roller of the product, CPSC urges consumers with children at home to stop using the product immediately.”

However, Peloton called out the agency over the flawed warning and claimed the Tread+ treadmill is safe to use as long as precautions are taken.

“The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s unilateral press release about the Peloton Tread+ treadmill is inaccurate and misleading. The Tread+ is safe for Members to use in their homes and comes with safety instructions and warnings to ensure its safe use. Like all motorized exercise equipment, the Tread+ can pose hazards if the warnings and safety instructions are not followed,” the statement from Peloton read.

“The Tread+ is not for children under 16. Peloton warns Members not to let children use the Tread+ and to keep children, pets, and objects away from the Tread+ at all times. Any owner of a treadmill – whether made by Peloton or not – should follow these warnings, as they are included in the applicable safety standards, which the Peloton Tread+ meets.”

The company went on to suggest the CPSC should collaborate with Peloton to release a joint statement about the precautions users should take when operating the Treat+.

After the fitness company reported the death of a child involving the Tread+ treadmill, Peloton advised owners to keep kids and pets away from the machine. The removal of the safety key was also recommended to keep it away from those who should not have access to it.