It’s the monsoon season now and on most evenings, we have been getting thunderstorms, flash floods, and strong winds. I was just about to leave my house at 6.30 p.m. to go for a jog outside but the skies started to turn grey and it started to pour again. Bummer! But Cass went ahead and headed to the gym. I have never given it a thought on whether it’s safe to use gym equipment that is plugged into the wall power socket but today it suddenly dawned on me – is it safe to use gym equipment during a thunderstorm?
Can you get electrocuted while jogging on a treadmill or working out on other gym machines when lightning is striking outside? Let’s dive into this electrifying topic to understand the risks and safety measures.
Lightning and Electrical Conductivity
Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. It’s important to remember that lightning seeks the path of least resistance, and metal objects, water, and electrical conductors offer low-resistance pathways for electrical currents. Therefore, if lightning were to strike your home, it could potentially follow these pathways.
The Risks Associated with Gym Equipment
Most modern gyms are equipped with a variety of electrical devices, including treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and weightlifting equipment. These machines are often plugged into electrical outlets. While gym equipment itself is not inherently dangerous during a thunderstorm, the fact that it’s connected to the electrical grid raises concerns.
The Real Risk: Power Surges
The primary risk associated with using gym equipment during a thunderstorm is not electrocution but rather power surges. Lightning strikes can cause electrical surges that travel through power lines and into buildings. If your gym equipment is plugged in and the lightning strike causes a power surge, it can potentially damage the equipment. This is why many gyms invest in surge protectors to safeguard their expensive machinery.
Safety Precautions: What You Can Do
Unplug the Equipment: The safest option during a thunderstorm is to unplug all gym equipment from electrical outlets. This eliminates the risk of damage from power surges. If you’re using equipment at home, take the same precautions.
Use Surge Protectors: Invest in surge protectors for your home gym. These devices can help divert excess voltage and protect your equipment from damage during electrical surges.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for your gym equipment. They may provide specific recommendations for safety during electrical storms.
While the chances of being electrocuted while using gym equipment during a thunderstorm are minimal, the risk of equipment damage from power surges is real. The same goes for using the computer during thunderstorms. My desktop computer (motherboard) was totally wrecked during a bad thunderstorm a few years ago and I had to replace it with a new unit.
To ensure your safety and protect your fitness investment, it’s wise to follow safety precautions such as unplugging equipment or using surge protectors. If you go to a gym, it’s advisable to skip this routine during a thunderstorm and wait until the lightning and storm stop.
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