Update: As of Jan. 27, Matrix has completed the field fix or dispatched the field fix for 100 of the 140 units affected by this recall.
Matrix Fitness, Madison Grove, WI, is advising fitness facility operators who own Varsity series strength training machines purchased between July 2013 and October 2014 to take the equipment out of service until a free repair can be arranged.
This week, Johnson Health Tech North America, which owns Matrix Fitness, issued a recall of the series. The models involved in the recall include the VY-6021 Lat Pulldown, the VY-6042 Bicep/Triceps Press, the VY-6046 Lat Pulldown/Low Row VY 6099 Total Body Trainer and the J7021 Special Order Lat Pull. The machines included in the recall were sold for about $3,300 to $4,000 between July 2013 and October 2014, which totals 140 units. The recall does not involve Varsity machines currently being sold, according to Matrix.
Users may be at risk for an impact injury, laceration or fall hazard because the handle attachment on the strength training machines may detach during use, according to a news release from the company. When this happens, a user may be hit with force, lose balance and fall. So far, the company has received two reports of injuries when a handle detached from the machine. One man fell, and another man was hit and cut on his head.
The machines have chrome frames, stacked weights, overhead pulleys, vinyl seats and thigh supports. The word "Matrix" and a model number are printed on a white sticker on the base of the machines.
To schedule a free repair, club owners should call Johnson Health Tech North America at 866-218-3674.