Decoding ISO 20957: Choose Right Gym Equipment for Your Business

Decoding Iso 20957: Choose Right Gym Equipment For Your Business 1
Hi, I’m George Yang — founder of YR Fitness and a hands-on fitness equipment designer with over 30 years of industry experience.

I’ve seen gym owners invest thousands in equipment, only to face complaints, repairs, or safety concerns within the first year. If you run a gym business, you know how costly the wrong equipment decision can be.

Those problems usually don’t come from bad intentions—they come from not fully understanding standards like Decoding ISO 20957.

At YR Fitness, we manufacture commercial gym equipment that meets ISO 20957 and is used by gyms and distributors worldwide. As a supplier, we help businesses choose equipment that performs well, lasts long, and passes real-world use.

In this article, we break down what ISO 20957 really means and how it affects your buying decisions. You’ll learn how to use this standard to protect your investment and your reputation.

If your goal is to balance quality, safety, and profitability, this is a standard you can’t afford to ignore.

Now, let’s get started!

What Is ISO 20957?

Ever wonder about the safety standard of the gym equipment you use?

Enter ISO 20957.

In simple terms, ISO is a group that sets global standards for all sorts of things. For gym equipment, ISO 20957 is their stamp of approval. It means the equipment is safe and performs well.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  1. General Safety Requirements: ISO 20957 outlines safety rules that all stationary gym equipment must follow.
  2. Specific Equipment Standards: The standard goes into detail for different equipment types, from treadmills to weights.

So, why should you care?

ISO 20957 is like a quality promise. When equipment meets this standard, you can trust its safety and performance.

In short, ISO 20957 helps ensure the gym equipment you use or buy is top-notch and reliable.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into ISO 20957’s detailed part-by-part breakdown.

ISO 20957 Breakdown: Explore by Part

Note: Part 3 has been amalgamated with Part 2 after CEN Enquiry.

Part 1: General Safety Requirements

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-1 is your safety playbook for all stationary training equipment, ensuring workouts are not just effective, but also safe.

Main Highlights

Scope:

This standard is all about making sure stationary training equipment, like your gym machines, are safe and tested thoroughly. Partnering with a reputable commercial gym equipment manufacturer ensures your equipment meets these safety and environmental standards. It also keeps an eye on environmental aspects and helps classify different types of equipment.

Applicability:

Applicable to all stationary training equipment for various settings including sports associations, educational establishments, hotels, sport halls, clubs, rehabilitation centers, and home use.

Not applicable for outdoor use without supervision or for children under 14 years unless used for educational purposes under adult supervision.

Classification:

  • Accuracy Classes: A (high), B (medium), C (low) – basically, how precise the equipment data is.
  • Usage Classes: S (Studio), H (Home), I (Special needs). Know where to use ’em!

Technical Terms:

  1. Stationary Training Equipment: Think gym machines that stay put while you use them.
  2. Training Area: The space you and the machine use while you’re working out.
  3. Safe Operational Area: A safe zone where no one can accidentally get hurt by the machine while it’s being used.
  4. Intrinsic Loading: The load coming from your own body weight.
  5. Extrinsic Loading: Any load that’s not from your body, like weights or resistance bands.
  6. Heart Rate Control Mode: A feature that adjusts your workout intensity based on your heart rate.
  7. Ergometer: A fancy term for equipment that measures your power output in Watts.

Safety Requirements:

  • Stability: Your machine needs to stay put, no wobbling allowed!
  • External Construction: No sharp edges and all tubes need to be sealed off.
  • Squeeze and Shear Points: No spots that could pinch or cut you during use.
  • Dynamic Direction: Ensuring the force applied during exercises is safe and clear.
  • Loading: Making sure all types of loading are safe and tested.

Test Methods:

The standard gives a thorough guide on how to test everything from stability to the safety of various parts, ensuring your stationary training equipment is safe and works like a charm.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-1:2013 that you can use to self-check the safety of your gym equipment:

  1. Stability Check: Make sure the equipment doesn’t shake or move unexpectedly.
  2. Smooth Edges: Check for any sharp edges or corners that could cause injury.
  3. Tube Ends: Ensure all tube ends are sealed or capped securely.
  4. Loading: Confirm that all loading mechanisms operate smoothly and safely.
  5. Safety Gaps: Look for gaps that could pinch, trap, or cut users during movement.
  6. Heart Rate Features: If included, verify heart rate functions for accuracy and reliability.
  7. Clear Instructions: Check that safety labels and instructions are easy to see and understand.
  8. Test Movements: Operate all moving parts to ensure smooth, controlled motion.

As a commercial gym equipment manufacturer, we design our machines with these ISO 20957 safety points in mind from the start. At YR Fitness, our focus is simple: professional design, strong build quality, and equipment that holds up in real gym environments.

If you’re upgrading or sourcing equipment and want safety standards done right, talk to us. We offer ISO 20957-compliant strength equipment, cardio machines, and accessories, all from one supplier—so you can build your gym with confidence.

Part 2: Strength Training Equipment

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-2:2020 is your go-to standard for ensuring the safety and reliability of stationary strength training equipment.

Main Highlights

Scope:

It is intended to be read in conjunction with the general safety requirements of ISO 20957-1.

This part of ISO 20957 zeroes in on stationary strength training equipment, ensuring they meet specific safety requirements and test methods. It’s your safety net, ensuring that all stationary strength training equipment, from those with stacked weights to hydraulic systems, adhere to international safety and testing standards.

Applicability:

This standard applies to stationary strength training equipment, ensuring they’re not just robust but safe for users across various environments. Whether it’s equipment with stacked weights or alternative resistance like elastic cords, this standard has it covered, ensuring safety across home, studio, and special needs settings.

Note: Free-weight barbell racks are subject to the requirements of ISO 20957-4 and ISO 20957-1.

Technical Terms:

  1. Selectorized Equipment: Think of it as your adjustable dumbbell set, where you can change resistance without swapping parts.
  2. Externally Loaded Equipment: This is your traditional weight setup, where you manually add or remove weights.
  3. Drop Stop: A safeguard that sets a minimum stopping point to prevent accidents.
  4. Catch Mechanism: It’s like a safety net for your weights, holding them securely.
  5. Work Arm: The part you move to engage the resistance.
  6. Training Resistance: The force you’re working against during your workout.
  7. Weight Post: The spot where weights are held, whether for resistance or storage.
  8. Guided Equipment: Equipment where the resistance follows a set path during use.

Safety Requirements:

  • Stability: Your equipment needs to stay steadfast and stable, no matter the workout intensity.
  • Loading: Whether it’s selectorized or externally loaded, the equipment must handle loads safely and securely.
  • Endurance: The equipment must endure not just the usual wear and tear but also the maximum user weight and training load.
  • Entrapment: No risk of getting stuck – the equipment should provide clearances to prevent entrapment during use.

Test Methods:

Testing isn’t just a tick-box exercise; it’s about ensuring your equipment can stand the test of time, usage, and safety. From stability testing, ensuring it stays put during use, to loading tests, making sure it can handle the weight, every test is a step towards safer workouts.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-2:2020 that you can use to review the safety and performance of your strength equipment:

  1. Stability Check: Give it a shake—your equipment should stay solid, even during heavy use.
  2. Smooth Loading: Adding or adjusting weights should feel easy and controlled.
  3. Safety First: Make sure there are no gaps that could trap hands, fingers, or clothing.
  4. Clear Instructions: Safety labels and usage instructions should be visible and simple.
  5. Smooth Operation: All moving parts should run smoothly without sticking or noise.
  6. Secure Adjustments: Once set, adjustable parts should stay firmly in place.

As a commercial strength equipment manufacturer, we build our machines to meet ISO 20957-2 from design to final testing. At YR Fitness, we focus on correct movement angles, durable frames, and reliable performance for busy gyms.

If you’re sourcing strength machines that meet safety standards and last in real training environments, we can help. Contact YR Fitness to explore our ISO 20957-compliant strength equipment and build your gym with confidence.

Part 3: Strength Training Benches

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-4 is your go-to, focusing on the safety of stationary strength training benches and free-standing barbell racks.

Main Highlights

Scope:

It is intended to be read in conjunction with the general safety requirements of ISO 20957-1.

ISO 20957-4 zeroes in on the safety requirements and test methods for stationary strength training benches, making it a key part of gym equipment certification standards. It’s a companion to ISO 20957-1, adding extra layers of safety specifics just for these benches.

Applicability:

This standard applies to stationary strength training benches and free-standing barbell racks, ensuring they meet safety and test method requirements. It’s relevant for equipment classified as S, H, and I according to ISO 20957-1.

Technical Terms:

  1. Stationary Training Equipment: Gear that stays put during your workout sessions.
  2. Barbell Support: The component designed to securely hold the barbell.
  3. Free-Standing Barbell Racks: Racks that are not attached and can stand independently.
  4. Longitudinal Stability: Ensuring the bench doesn’t tip over lengthwise.
  5. Lateral Stability: Making sure the bench remains stable widthwise.
  6. Safety Device: A feature or tool designed to prevent accidents or injuries.
  7. Visual Examination: A method of inspecting equipment under appropriate lighting.
  8. Performance Test: A method to check the functionality of the equipment.

Safety Requirements:

  • Barbell Stability: Ensuring that barbells won’t tip over with uneven loads.
  • Lateral Stability: Benches must remain stable, even when loaded unevenly across the width.
  • Longitudinal Stability: Benches need to stay stable along their length, even under stress.
  • Barbell Support Dimensions: Specific measurements to ensure safe and secure barbell resting.
  • Barbell Support Strength: It must withstand loads without breaking or tipping over.
  • Loading: Adhering to intrinsic and extrinsic loading compliance as per ISO 20957-1.

Test Methods:

Testing involves a mix of visual examinations, dimensional checks, and performance tests to ensure all parts of the bench, from stability to barbell support, are up to standard and safe to use.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-4:2016 to help you evaluate the safety and performance of your strength training benches:

  1. Stability Check: Make sure the bench stays firm and does not wobble or tip during use.
  2. Barbell Support: Confirm that the rack follows the required dimensions and holds the barbell securely.
  3. Safety Devices: Check that all safety arms, catches, or supports work as intended.
  4. Visual Check: Inspect the bench for visible damage, loose parts, or sharp edges.
  5. Performance Testing: Test all adjustable and moving parts for smooth and secure operation.
  6. Loading Compliance: Verify that the bench meets the loading requirements defined in ISO 20957-1.

As a commercial gym equipment manufacturer, we design benches to meet ISO 20957-4 from the ground up. At YR Fitness, we focus on strong frames, correct dimensions, and stable support for heavy training.

If you want benches that feel solid, last longer, and meet safety standards, we’re here to help. Contact YR Fitness to upgrade your gym with ISO-certified benches and barbell racks built for commercial use.

Part 4: Stationary Exercise Bicycles

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-5 is your go-to guide, focusing on the nitty-gritty of stationary training bicycles.

Main Highlights

Scope:

It should be read in conjunction with the general safety requirements specified in ISO 20957-1.

ISO 20957-5 dives deep into the safety and performance specifics of stationary training bicycles. It ensures cycling workout is not only effective but also safe, covering everything from handlebars to pedals.

Applicability:

Applicable to stationary training equipment types: exercise bicycles (type 5), upper body crank training equipment (type 7), and excludes roller stands (type 8), ensuring they’re safe and reliable for your workouts. Whether you’re cycling at home, in a studio, or require special needs equipment, ISO 20957-5 has got you covered.

Technical Terms:

  1. Adjustable Torque: Lets you maintain a set resistance level during your workout.
  2. Constant Power Mode: A program that allows you to maintain a specific power level, regardless of your pedalling speed.
  3. Inertia Factor: Considers all rotating parts in the drive train and the gear ratio for smooth operation.
  4. Protective Cover: Shields you from any potentially hazardous parts of the training equipment.
  5. Heart Rate Control Mode: A program that adjusts resistance automatically to maintain your heart rate at a set level.
  6. Load Adjustment: A feature that lets you change the resistance level you feel while pedalling.
  7. Adjustable Handlebar: Handlebars that can be modified for various training positions.
  8. Seat System: Comprises the seat, seat back rest, and all adjustment and mounting components.

Safety Requirements:

  • Protective Cover: Keep those moving parts covered – no accidental bumps or scrapes here!
  • Adjustable Handlebar and Seat System: Ensure they can be securely fixed to avoid unexpected movements.
  • Load Adjustment: It should be user-friendly and safe to alter resistance levels during a workout.
  • Display: Information provided to the user should be clear and accurate to prevent misuse.
  • Heart Rate Control Mode: Should reliably adjust to keep your pulse in the safe zone.

Test Methods:

Test methods in ISO 20957-5 ensure every part, from the display to the pedal straps, is checked for safety and functionality, ensuring your stationary bicycle is reliable and user-friendly.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-5:2016 to help you review the safety and usability of your stationary exercise bikes:

  1. Stability: Give it a shake—the bike should stay firmly in place.
  2. Handlebar and Seat Adjustment: Adjustments should be easy and lock securely during use.
  3. Display Clarity: The screen should be clear and simple to read while cycling.
  4. Pedal Straps: Make sure straps are secure and stay tight throughout workouts.
  5. Protective Cover: All moving or risky parts should be fully covered and fixed in place.
  6. Resistance Change: Resistance should adjust smoothly without sticking or sudden jumps.
  7. Heart Rate Control: If included, resistance should respond accurately to heart rate input.
  8. Seat Comfort: The seat should provide stable support for longer sessions.

As a commercial gym equipment manufacturer, we design cardio machines to meet ISO 20957-5 requirements from testing to final production. At YR Fitness, we focus on smooth motion, durable components, and bikes built for constant gym use.

If you want stationary bikes that feel stable, operate smoothly, and last longer, we can support your project. Contact YR Fitness to explore our ISO-certified cardio equipment and complete your gym with a one-stop solution.

Part 5: Treadmills

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-6 is your go-to guide, focusing on the specific safety requirements and test methods for treadmills.

Main Highlights

Scope:

It is intended that this document is applied together with ISO 20957-1.

ISO 20957-6 meticulously outlines additional safety requirements and test methods specifically for treadmills, ensuring your jogging or sprinting sessions are secure and reliable. It’s a detailed roadmap, ensuring treadmills, whether power-driven or manually operated, adhere to stringent safety protocols.

Applicability:

This document is applicable to power-driven as well as non-power/manually driven training equipment type treadmills (hereafter referred to as treadmills) with the classes S, H, and I and classes A, B, and C regarding accuracy.

This document is not applicable to treadmills which are manufactured before its publication.

Technical Terms:

  1. Length of the Running Surface: The usable length where the exercise takes place.
  2. Foot Rail: The area beside the running surface for mounting or pausing.
  3. Emergency Dismount: A quick exit off the running surface, especially in urgent situations.
  4. Heart Rate Control Mode: A feature that adjusts speed/incline based on your pulse.
  5. Protective Cover: A shield to prevent user access to potentially hazardous parts.
  6. Front Handlebar: A bar at the front for support and stability during exercise.

Safety Requirements:

  • Squeeze and Shear Points: Ensure no risk of pinching or shearing within accessible areas.
  • Transmission Elements: All moving parts should be safely enclosed.
  • Temperature Rise: Parts shouldn’t get too hot to touch.
  • Safety Stop: An emergency stop feature must be present and easily accessible.
  • Stability: The treadmill must remain stable during use.
  • Handrails: Ensure they are sturdy and appropriately positioned for safety and usability.
  • Running Surface: It should be designed to minimize the risk of users tripping or falling.

Test Methods:

Test methods in ISO 20957-6 involve a thorough examination of various aspects like transmission elements, temperature rise, safety stop functionality, stability, and the endurance and strength of the running surface, ensuring all elements are up to the mark and safe for users.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-6:2021 to help you evaluate treadmill safety and performance in a commercial setting:

  1. Stability Check: The treadmill should stay steady and not shift during use.
  2. Safety Stop: The emergency stop must be easy to reach and work instantly.
  3. Handrails: Handrails should feel solid and be placed at a natural height.
  4. Running Surface: The belt and deck should be smooth, even, and free from damage.
  5. Temperature: After use, no part of the treadmill should become excessively hot.
  6. Noise: Operation should be quiet and consistent, without unusual sounds.
  7. Protective Covers: All covers must be securely installed to protect users.
  8. Emergency Dismount: Users should be able to step off safely at any time.

When we develop treadmills, ISO 20957-6 is part of our design process, not an afterthought. At YR Fitness, we build commercial treadmills for high-traffic gyms, focusing on safety, durability, and smooth performance.

If you’re planning to upgrade or expand your cardio zone, let us support your project. Reach out to YR Fitness to explore ISO-certified treadmills and complete your gym with a reliable, cost-effective solution.

Part 6: Rowing Machines

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-7:2020 is your go-to guide, focusing on ensuring the safety and test methods of stationary rowing training equipment.

Main Highlights

Scope:

It is intended to be read in conjunction with the general safety requirements of ISO 20957-1.

ISO 20957-7:2020 zeroes in on the safety requirements and test methods for stationary rowing equipment. It aims to ensure that rowing training, whether at home or in a professional setting, adheres to international safety and efficacy standards.

Applicability:

This standard applies to stationary rowing training equipment, ensuring they meet specific safety and testing criteria. It encompasses rowing equipment across various classes, including H, S, I, and accuracy classes A, B, and C.

Technical Terms:

  1. Intrinsic Loading: The equipment’s ability to withstand specified load conditions.
  2. Foot Strap: A feature designed to securely fasten the user’s foot during use.
  3. Foot Support: A component that withstands a push force, ensuring stability and safety.
  4. Resistance Adjustment: A mechanism that allows users to modify the resistance level.
  5. Handle: A component, often connected by a flexible member, used to perform the rowing action.
  6. Transmission Elements: Parts like fans and flywheels, crucial for the equipment’s operation.
  7. Endurance: The equipment’s capacity to sustain specified cycles of use under certain conditions.

Safety Requirements:

  • Stability: Your rowing machine must stay firmly grounded, no tipping allowed!
  • External Construction: Ensuring no harmful squeeze, shear, or reciprocating points are accessible.
  • Temperature Control: Accessible surfaces should maintain a temperature of ≤65 °C.
  • Seat Security: The seat must remain securely on its track under various stress conditions.
  • Handle Weight: Handles, without flexible members, should weigh ≤600 g.
  • Foot Strap Durability: Must withstand a pull force of ≥500 N perpendicular to the foot support.
  • Endurance: The equipment should endure 12,000 to 100,000 cycles, depending on the class, without breaking down.

Test Methods:

The standard provides comprehensive test methods, including visual and tactile examinations, dimensional checks, intrinsic loading tests, and performance tests, ensuring every aspect of the rowing equipment is thoroughly evaluated for safety and functionality.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-7:2020 to help you assess the safety and performance of rowing machines in a commercial gym:

  1. Stable and Steady: The rower should stay solid with no wobbling during use.
  2. Seat Check: The seat must glide smoothly and stay on track under load.
  3. Handle Weight: The handle should feel light, balanced, and comfortable to hold.
  4. Foot Security: Foot straps and supports should be strong and easy to adjust.
  5. Resistance Adjustment: Resistance changes should be smooth and controlled.
  6. Surface Temperature: Accessible surfaces should not become overly hot during use.
  7. Endurance: Confirm the machine’s cycle endurance matches your gym’s usage level.
  8. Safety Features: There should be no exposed parts that could pinch or injure users.

Rowing machines see repeated, high-force use in commercial gyms, so we design ours with that reality in mind. At YR Fitness, our rowers are tested against ISO 20957-7 requirements to support smooth motion, long service life, and user safety.

If you’re adding rowing machines or refreshing your cardio lineup, we’re ready to assist. Contact YR Fitness to get our ISO-certified rowing equipment and build a complete, professional cardio area.

Part 7: Steppers, Stairclimbers, and Climbers

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-8 is your go-to standard, focusing on the safety and test methods for stationary training equipment like steppers, stairclimbers, and climbers.

Main Highlights

Scope:

Intended to be read in conjunction with ISO 20957-1.

ISO 20957-8 zeroes in on the safety requirements and test methods for steppers, stairclimbers, and climbers, ensuring your workout is not just effective but also safe. It’s all about making sure these machines, whether you’re stepping or climbing, adhere to international safety and testing standards.

Applicability:

This part of the ISO standard is applicable to stationary training equipment, specifically steppers, stairclimbers, and climbers, ensuring they meet safety and testing criteria. It’s relevant to equipment in classes S (Studio) and H (Home), with additional accuracy requirements for class A.

Technical Terms:

  1. Dependent Action: When one pedal moves, so does the other.
  2. Independent Action: The pedals move independently of each other.
  3. Cycle: One foot returning to its starting position, counting as two steps.

Safety Requirements:

  • External Construction: Watch out for those squeeze and shear points within accessible areas!
  • Temperature: Accessible surfaces should be safe to touch, no unexpected hot spots.
  • Intrinsic Loading: It’s all about ensuring the machine can handle the stress during use.
  • Handrails/Handlebars: They should be sturdy and reliable during your workout.
  • Footplatforms and Stairs: Ensuring safe stepping and stable support.
  • Endurance: Your machine should withstand the test of time and use.
  • Freewheel: Keeping things in control even when you stop pedaling.

Test Methods:

Test methods in ISO 20957-8 include visual and tactile examinations, dimensional checks, and performance tests, ensuring every part of the equipment, from the temperature of accessible surfaces to the endurance of the machine, is thoroughly checked and safe for use.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-8:2017 to help you review the safety and durability of steppers, stairclimbers, and climbers in a commercial gym:

  1. Stable and Steady: The machine should remain firm and not shift during use.
  2. Smooth Movements: Pedals and handlebars must move smoothly without sticking.
  3. Safe Surfaces: All touchpoints should stay at a safe temperature during workouts.
  4. Secure Handrails: Handrails and grips should feel solid and well-fixed.
  5. Footplatform Check: Platforms should provide secure and stable footing.
  6. Endurance Check: Confirm the equipment is built for long-term, repeated use.
  7. Safety Features: There should be no sharp edges or exposed moving parts.
  8. Clear Instructions: Safety labels and usage guides should be easy to read.

Machines like steppers and climbers face constant load and motion, so design quality matters. At YR Fitness, we engineer these machines to meet ISO 20957-8 standards while keeping movement smooth and structure strong for daily gym use.

If you’re planning a cardio upgrade or a full gym build, we can support you. Contact YR Fitness to get our ISO-certified cardio equipment and complete your facility with a one-stop solution.

Part 8: Elliptical Trainers

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-9:2016 is your go-to guide for the safety and testing of elliptical trainers.

Main Highlights

Scope:

Specifies additional safety requirements for elliptical trainers in addition to ISO 20957-1.

Applicability:

This standard is tailored for elliptical trainers, which can have a closed pattern or reciprocating motion. Whether you’re standing or seated, this guide has got you covered.

Technical Terms:

  1. Footplatform: Where you place your feet during the workout.
  2. Footplatform Guard: A structure that prevents your foot from slipping off the footplatform.
  3. Movable Handlebar: A handlebar that moves as you exercise.
  4. Seat System: Includes the seat, backrest, and adjustment components.
  5. Non-slip Surface: A surface with a friction coefficient >0.5, ensuring your foot doesn’t slip.

Safety Requirements:

  • Squeeze and Shear Points: Keep those fingers safe! No pinching or cutting hazards here.
  • Temperature Control: No part should get hotter than 65°C. No one likes unexpected burns.
  • Handlebars: Whether they move or not, they should be sturdy and safe.
  • Footplatforms: They should have a non-slip surface and a guard to keep your feet in place.
  • Stability: Your elliptical shouldn’t wobble or tip over. Safety first!
  • Seat System: It should be able to handle the weight it’s designed for.

Test Methods:

Tests cover everything from checking dimensions and visual examination to performance tests. They ensure everything from handlebars to footplatforms meets the standard.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-9:2016 to help you check the safety and build quality of elliptical trainers in your facility:

  1. Stability Check: Give the elliptical a gentle push—it should stay steady and balanced.
  2. Handlebar Test: Move the handlebars to ensure they feel solid and show no bending or play.
  3. Footplatform Inspection: Foot platforms should feel secure with no risk of slipping during motion.
  4. Temperature Test: After use, exposed surfaces should not become excessively hot.
  5. Seat System: If equipped, the seat should adjust smoothly and lock firmly in place.
  6. Safety Features: Check for sharp edges, gaps, or exposed parts that could cause injury.

Ellipticals combine full-body movement with continuous motion, so precision matters. We build our ellipticals with ISO 20957-9 in mind, focusing on balance, smooth motion, and long-term durability. At YR Fitness, our goal is to supply cardio equipment that performs well in busy commercial gyms.

If you’re selecting ellipticals for a new gym or upgrading existing cardio zones, we’re ready to help. Contact YR Fitness to get our ISO-certified ellipticals and complete your facility with reliable, professional equipment.

Part 9: Exercise Bicycles

What’s it all about?

ISO 20957-10:2017 is your go-to guide, focusing on the safety and test methods for exercise bicycles with a fixed wheel or without freewheel.

Main Highlights

Scope:

These requirements are supplementary to the general safety standards outlined in ISO 20957-1.

This part of ISO 20957 zeroes in on exercise bicycles with a fixed wheel or without freewheel, ensuring they meet specific safety requirements and test methods. It’s all about making sure these exercise bikes, with an inertia of >0,6 kg·m^2, are safe and reliable for your workouts.

Applicability:

Applies to exercise bicycles used in various contexts, including sports associations, educational institutions, hotels, sport halls, clubs, rehabilitation centers, and homes.

Not suitable for outdoor use without supervision or for children under 14, except for educational purposes under adult supervision.

Technical Terms:

  1. Flywheel: The rotating mass designed to create inertia in the exercise bicycle.
  2. Freewheel: A mechanism that disengages the flywheel from the pedal mechanism in one direction.
  3. Seat Pillar: The connector between the frame and the seat, allowing height adjustment.
  4. Seat Tube: The frame part where the seat pillar is inserted.
  5. Handlebar Stem: Connects the frame and handlebar, allowing height adjustment of the latter.
  6. Emergency Brake: A mechanism designed to halt pedal movement in emergency situations.
  7. Locking System: A mechanism designed to immobilize any rotating part of the training equipment.
  8. Housing: A cover used to encase potentially hazardous elements.

Safety Requirements:

  • External Construction: No sharp edges and a safe distance between pedal cranks and stationary parts.
  • Temperature Control: Accessible surfaces should not exceed 65 °C.
  • Intrinsic Loading: Seat pillars, handlebars, and pedals must withstand specific loads without breaking or malfunctioning.
  • Seat Pillar Adjustment: Should be adjustable without tools (for class S) and have a clear mark indicating minimum insertion depth.
  • Handlebar: Should be adjustable or offer various grip positions and have a clear mark indicating minimum insertion depth.
  • Pedals: Must include retention means to prevent unintended foot movement.
  • Stability: The equipment should not tip over.
  • Locking System: For home use (class H), exercise bicycles without freewheel should have a locking system capable of holding ≥100 Nm torque applied to the crankshaft.

Test Methods:

Test methods in ISO 20957-10:2017 involve detailed procedures for checking transmission elements, rotating parts, temperature of accessible surfaces, intrinsic loading, handlebars, stability, and the emergency braking system, ensuring all components meet the safety requirements.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist based on ISO 20957-10:2017 to help you evaluate the safety and reliability of exercise bicycles in a commercial setting:

  1. Stability Check: The bike should remain steady with no tipping or wobbling.
  2. Surface Temperature: All touchable surfaces should stay cool during use.
  3. Seat and Handlebar Stability: Adjustments should lock firmly and support body weight.
  4. Pedal Security: Feet must stay securely in place without slipping.
  5. Emergency Brake Check: The brake should stop pedal movement quickly and reliably.
  6. Locking System: If included, locking systems must fully stop rotating parts.
  7. Visible Markings: Seat and handlebar posts should show clear insertion depth markings.
  8. Smooth Operation: Moving and adjustable parts should operate smoothly and lock securely.

For commercial gyms, exercise bikes need to handle constant use without losing safety or comfort. That’s why we approach ISO 20957-10 as a practical guide, not just a requirement. At YR Fitness, we build exercise bikes that focus on stable frames, smooth resistance, and long service life.

If you’re sourcing bikes for a new facility or refreshing your cardio area, let’s talk. Contact YR Fitness to get our ISO-certified exercise bicycles and build a safer, more reliable gym environment.

Final Thought

Congratulations on reaching the end of this blog!

We believe the insights shared here will help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing from the different types of gym equipments for your business.

Now, it’s your turn to share:

What type of gym equipment are you currently in need of? Do you plan to apply the buying tips you’ve learned here to conduct a quality check?

If you’re seeking a manufacturer that not only meets but surpasses ISO 20957 standards, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Related articles: