What was recalled
In the spring of 2019, specifically on May 23rd, a significant safety alert was issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regarding a piece of home fitness equipment sold under the DICK’S Sporting Goods brand. The product in question is known as the Ethos Pull-Up Assist. This item is designed to help individuals perform pull-ups more easily by providing resistance assistance, but it has been identified as potentially dangerous due to structural failures in its components. If you purchased this specific piece of exercise gear from a DICK’S Sporting Goods location or their online store around that time, it is important to understand exactly what product is involved and why the company felt compelled to issue a recall.
The Ethos Pull-Up Assist is not just a simple resistance band; it is a system designed to attach to standard pull-up bars. The equipment consists of three red resistance bands that are bundled together. These bands are connected via a black nylon web connector. On this black webbing, the word "ETHOS" is printed in bold red letters, serving as the primary branding identifier for the product line. Attached to this nylon web band is a plastic clip, which connects to a metal carabiner. The way the device is intended to be used involves placing both your feet into the loop created by the nylon web band and the attached bands while you hang from a pull-up bar. The resistance provided by the red bands helps lift some of your body weight, making the exercise more accessible for those building strength or recovering from injury.
To verify if you own the recalled item, you should look closely at the packaging and the product itself. The style number ETHA200 is printed on the packaging, and the Universal Product Code (UPC) number 889751549392 is also listed there. These identifiers are crucial because recalls often target specific manufacturing batches or model variations, and this particular recall applies to the Ethos Pull-Up Assist bearing these specific codes. The product was sold through DICK’S Sporting Goods retail stores across the United States as well as through their e-commerce platform. If you have this equipment in your garage gym, basement, or home workout space, checking for the black nylon connector with red "ETHOS" lettering and the associated style number will confirm whether your unit is part of this specific safety notice.
Understanding what was recalled is the first step in ensuring your home remains a safe place for physical activity. This recall highlights how even small components, like a plastic clip on a web band, can compromise the integrity of an entire exercise system when subjected to the dynamic forces of bodyweight training. By identifying the exact product details—brand, model, and visual markers—you can accurately determine if your equipment falls under this advisory.
The hazard, explained
When you use the DICK’S Sporting Goods Ethos Pull-Up Assist, you are relying on a system designed to make a difficult exercise more accessible. The device works by providing upward resistance through three red bands that connect to a nylon web strap. This strap is secured under your feet using two critical components: a metal carabiner and a plastic clip. While this setup allows the bands to stretch and recoil, it also places significant mechanical stress on these connection points with every pull-up you perform. The hazard lies in the failure of that specific plastic clip.
The core issue is structural integrity under dynamic load. During a pull-up, your body weight creates tension that travels through the resistance bands and concentrates at the connection points near your feet. The plastic clip, which attaches the nylon web band to the carabiner, is not designed to withstand the repeated shear forces and impact loads generated during this exercise. Over time, or even after a single intense use, the material can fail catastrophically. When this clip breaks, it does so suddenly and without warning. There is no gradual weakening that you might feel; one moment the equipment is holding your weight, and the next, the connection is severed.
This sudden release leads directly to physical injury. Because the carabiner and resistance bands are under high tension, their rapid retraction upon failure causes them to snap back with considerable force. If your feet slip out of the broken strap or if the band whips upward while your hands are still gripping the pull-up bar, the loose ends of the nylon webbing or the metal hardware can strike your skin. This is what results in the lacerations reported by consumers. The sharp edges of the broken plastic, the taut nylon fibers, or the metal carabiner itself can cut the skin, sometimes deeply enough to require medical intervention such as stitches or staples.
It is important to understand that this is not a minor malfunction. The fact that seven reports of equipment breaking have resulted in six documented lacerations indicates a high probability of injury when the device fails. Lacerations are not just superficial scrapes; they can damage tendons, nerves, or blood vessels depending on where the impact occurs and how fast the object is moving. The mechanism of injury here is essentially a whiplash effect caused by the collapse of a load-bearing component in a high-tension system. This makes the defect particularly dangerous because it undermines the primary safety feature of the equipment: keeping your feet securely anchored during the exercise.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to this specific recall requires looking at both the mechanics of the equipment and the physical demands placed on the user during its use. The DICK’S Sporting Goods Ethos Pull-Up Assist is designed for individuals performing pull-ups, a compound exercise that relies heavily on upper body strength and grip. Consequently, the primary group at risk consists of fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and home gym owners who utilize resistance bands to modify their workout intensity. These users are typically engaged in active, dynamic movements where they may be hanging suspended by the equipment or using it for assisted repetitions. The hazard is not latent; it manifests during the act of exercise, meaning anyone currently integrating this specific model into their routine is exposed to immediate danger if the plastic clip fails.
The nature of the defect—specifically the breaking of the plastic clip on the nylon web band—creates a unique peril for users who rely on the equipment for support. When the clip breaks while a person is hanging or bearing weight, the sudden loss of tension can cause the user to fall. This is particularly dangerous for individuals who are exercising alone without supervision or spotters. In such scenarios, the lack of immediate assistance can turn a minor equipment failure into a significant injury event. The reported incidents highlight this vulnerability: six lacerations have been documented from seven reports of breakage. One consumer required stitches, while another needed staples, indicating that the force of the snap-back or the resulting fall caused sharp, deep wounds likely from the broken plastic components or the metal carabiner snapping free.
While the product is marketed broadly, certain demographics may face heightened risks due to physiological factors. Older adults or those with lower baseline muscle strength often use assisted pull-up bands to bridge the gap between their current ability and their fitness goals. For these users, the equipment provides critical support that prevents them from dropping entirely. If the clip fails during a moment where they are most reliant on the band’s integrity, the consequences can be more severe than for a younger, stronger individual who might be able to catch themselves or disengage more safely. Furthermore, individuals with limited mobility or balance issues are at greater risk of secondary injuries, such as fractures or head trauma, from falling after the band snaps. The recall also implicitly affects parents who may purchase this equipment for teenage children or young adults training at home; while these users are generally physically robust, the unpredictability of the failure means that no amount of fitness level guarantees immunity from a sudden laceration or impact injury.
It is also important to note that the risk extends beyond just the primary user. Anyone in the immediate vicinity who might be spotting or assisting the user could inadvertently be struck by the recoiling band or broken parts. Therefore, the "at-risk" population includes not only those actively using the Ethos Pull-Up Assist but also household members and gym partners who share the training space. Given that the style number ETHA200 and UPC 889751549392 are specific identifiers, it is crucial that anyone owning this exact configuration remains vigilant. The combination of high-tension resistance bands and a compromised plastic connection point creates a scenario where timing is everything; a failure during peak exertion leaves little margin for error, making awareness and immediate cessation of use the most effective protective measures for all users.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, the most important step is to confirm that your specific piece of equipment matches the product listed in this recall. It is easy to assume a fitness accessory is safe simply because it looks similar to another model, but with the Ethos Pull-Up Assist, the distinction between the recalled version and any other resistance band system is critical for your safety. You need to look for very specific physical markers on both the device itself and its original packaging to be certain you are dealing with this exact hazard.
Start by examining the equipment you currently have at home. This particular assistive tool is designed to help with pull-ups by providing upward momentum through resistance. Visually, the system consists of three red resistance bands. These bands are not standalone; they are connected to a black nylon web connector. The most telling feature on this connector is the word “ETHOS” printed in red. If your equipment lacks this specific branding or uses different colors, it may be a different product, but if you see these exact details, proceed with caution. Additionally, look closely at how the bands are attached. The recall specifically involves a nylon web band that features a plastic clip and a metal carabiner. This plastic clip is the failure point mentioned in the CPSC report, so verifying its presence is essential.
If you still have the original box or packaging, check it for the following identifiers. The style number ETHA200 and the UPC code 889751549392 should be clearly printed on the label. These numbers are your definitive proof that your item is part of this specific recall batch. Without these numbers, it is difficult to confirm the product's identity with certainty.
You should also consider where and when you purchased the item. This recall applies to products sold by DICK’S Sporting Goods. If you bought your pull-up assist from a different retailer or a third-party seller online without clear DICK'S branding, it might not be covered, though it is worth checking with the manufacturer if you are unsure. The recall was announced on May 23, 2019, so if you purchased this item recently from DICK’S Sporting Goods, there is a higher likelihood it falls under this notice.
To be absolutely sure, compare your item against the description above. Look for the red ETHOS text, the black nylon web with the plastic clip and metal carabiner, and the three red bands. If these features match, do not use the equipment any longer. The combination of these specific visual cues confirms you have the recalled Ethos Pull-Up Assist that poses a laceration risk due to the potentially breaking plastic clip.
What to do — step by step
If you own the recalled Ethos Pull-Up Assist, your first and most critical action is to stop using the equipment immediately. This is not a suggestion; it is a necessary safety precaution. The recall was issued because the plastic clip on the nylon web band can break during use. When that clip fails, the resistance bands are no longer securely anchored under your feet, which creates a significant laceration hazard. Continuing to use the device puts you at risk of sudden injury, as evidenced by the seven reported incidents where the equipment broke and resulted in six separate lacerations. Some of these injuries were severe enough to require medical intervention, including stitches and staples. Therefore, do not attempt to test the clip’s strength or try to force it to work if it feels loose. Treat the product as unsafe the moment you realize you have one.
Once you have safely stored the equipment out of reach of children and pets, your next step is to return the item to a DICK’s Sporting Goods store. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the manufacturer have designated this as the official remedy for this recall. You do not need to mail the item back or wait for a shipping label. Instead, physically take the Ethos Pull-Up Assist to the nearest participating DICK’s Sporting Goods location. This in-person return process is designed to be straightforward and ensures that you receive the appropriate compensation quickly. When you arrive at the store, look for the “Recalls” section on the bottom of their website at dicksportinggoods.com if you want to verify the specific details of the recall before you go, but the core action remains the same: bring the product to a staff member.
When you return the item, your compensation will depend on whether you have your original proof of purchase. If you have your receipt, DICK’s Sporting Goods will provide you with a full refund. This means you will get back the exact amount you paid for the device. However, if you cannot find your receipt or do not have one, you will still be compensated. In this case, the store will issue you a store credit equal to the value of the recalled item. This ensures that regardless of your documentation status, you are made whole and are financially protected from the defect. After you complete the return, you should dispose of the broken or potentially dangerous parts responsibly, ensuring they cannot be used by anyone else.
If you have questions about the process or need further assistance, you can contact DICK’S Sporting Goods directly. They have established a dedicated consumer support line for this recall. You can call their toll-free number at 877-846-9997. The customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. ET, Monday through Friday. This is the best resource if you encounter issues with your receipt or have specific concerns about the product’s condition. By following these steps—stopping use, returning the item, and securing your refund or credit—you effectively eliminate the risk of injury associated with this defective pull-up assist equipment.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your Ethos Pull-Up Assist falls under this recall, the most important thing to know is that DICK’s Sporting Goods has established a clear and consumer-friendly remedy. They are not asking you to pay for shipping back to a warehouse, nor are they requiring you to wait for a complex inspection process. Instead, the company has opted for a straightforward, in-person resolution that prioritizes your safety and convenience. The core of the remedy is simple: you should take the product back to any DICK’s Sporting Goods store location near you. This approach removes the friction often associated with mail-in recalls, allowing you to resolve the issue quickly while ensuring the dangerous item is removed from your home immediately.
Once you arrive at the store, the process depends entirely on whether you still have your original proof of purchase. If you have kept your receipt, the experience should be seamless. You will receive a full refund for the item. This means the money you originally spent to buy the pull-up assist equipment is returned to you in its entirety, regardless of how long ago the purchase was made or what payment method you used initially. The company recognizes that a safety defect voids the value of the transaction, so they are restoring your financial position as if the product had never been sold.
If you do not have a receipt, do not worry. DICK’s Sporting Goods has anticipated this common scenario and has provided an alternative solution. In the absence of proof of purchase, you will receive store credit instead of a cash refund. This ensures that you are still compensated for the defective product and can use those funds toward other fitness equipment or general merchandise at their stores. The key takeaway here is that you will not be left holding the bag for a broken piece of equipment; whether through a direct refund or store credit, the financial loss is covered by the retailer.
To initiate this process or if you have questions about your specific situation, you can contact DICK’s Sporting Goods directly. You may call their toll-free number at 877-846-9997. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit dicksportinggoods.com and click on “Recalls” located at the bottom of the page for additional information and guidance. Remember, the goal here is not just to get your money back, but to ensure that the broken plastic clip and nylon web band are no longer a laceration hazard in your life.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to act on a recall notice. Perhaps the product has been sitting in your garage for months, or maybe you are simply busy and feel that the inconvenience of returning an item outweighs the perceived risk. You might think, “I’ve used this before without issue, so it must be fine.” However, ignoring a safety recall is never a gamble worth taking, especially when the specific hazard involves structural failure under tension. In the case of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Ethos Pull-Up Assist, the danger is not abstract; it is mechanical and immediate. The core issue lies in the plastic clip that connects the nylon web band to the resistance bands via a carabiner. This component is subjected to significant stress every time you hang your weight from it. When plastic degrades or fails under such load, it does not merely break quietly; it can snap with considerable force.
The consequences of continuing to use this equipment are physically severe and well-documented in the recall reports. The primary risk is laceration—deep cuts caused by broken plastic shards or the sudden release of tensioned bands whipping unpredictably. According to data collected by the company, there have already been seven reported incidents where the equipment broke during use. These were not close calls; they resulted in actual injuries. Six individuals suffered lacerations that required medical attention. The severity of these injuries varied, but they were serious enough to necessitate professional treatment. One consumer required stitches to close a wound, while another needed staples. These are not minor scrapes; they are deep tissue injuries that can lead to infection, nerve damage, or permanent scarring if not treated promptly and properly.
Consider the mechanics of what happens when the clip fails. You are performing a pull-up, relying on your body weight to stretch the resistance bands. The nylon webbing and plastic clip are holding that tension. If the plastic clip breaks unexpectedly, the entire assembly can fail instantly. The resistance bands may recoil violently, or sharp fragments of broken plastic could fly toward your skin or eyes. Even if you are lucky enough to avoid a deep cut, the shock of falling from the bar due to equipment failure can cause secondary injuries, such as sprains, fractures, or head trauma from hitting the floor. The unpredictability of the break is what makes it so dangerous; you cannot brace yourself against a sudden snap because it happens without warning.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall denies you the opportunity to protect your health and your wallet. By continuing to use a defective product, you are essentially paying for an item that might injure you. The remedy offered—a full refund or store credit—is designed to remove the financial burden of safety. If you choose to ignore the notice, you retain both the risk of injury and the cost of the product. There is no upside to waiting. The defect does not resolve itself over time; in fact, wear and tear from use only increases the likelihood of failure. Please prioritize your physical well-being and take the few minutes required to return the item. Your safety is far more valuable than the temporary convenience of ignoring a warning label.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in one brand of pull-up assistance equipment, the underlying principle applies to all home fitness gear: mechanical failure is often preventable with consistent, mindful maintenance. Resistance bands and suspension trainers are subject to significant stress every time they are used. The nylon webbing and plastic connectors bear the full weight of your body plus the dynamic force generated during movement. To keep your home gym safe, treat these items like any other piece of exercise equipment that requires inspection. Before each use, take thirty seconds to visually scan the entire length of the bands for fraying, discoloration, or thinning spots. Check all clips and carabiners to ensure they close fully and lock securely. If a plastic clip feels brittle or a metal component shows signs of rust or deformation, do not wait for it to break—replace the component or the entire unit immediately.
Beyond physical inspection, proper storage plays a crucial role in extending the life and safety of your equipment. UV light from direct sunlight is a silent enemy of nylon and elastic materials, causing them to degrade and become brittle over time even when not in use. Store your resistance bands and accessories in a cool, dry place away from windows or direct heat sources. Avoid leaving them coiled tightly for extended periods, as this can create permanent weak points in the material. Instead, hang them loosely or store them flat in a breathable bag. This simple habit preserves the integrity of the fibers and ensures that when you do need to rely on them for support, they will perform as intended.
It is also wise to diversify your safety habits by staying informed about product recalls across all categories of home goods. Manufacturers cannot anticipate every wear-and-tear scenario or manufacturing flaw in real-time, so government agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) serve as a critical layer of protection for consumers. Make it a quarterly habit to check the CPSC website or sign up for their email alerts. This proactive approach ensures that if a defect is discovered in any product you own—whether it is a crib, a power tool, or fitness equipment—you are among the first to know. Being informed allows you to act quickly, turning a potential emergency into a simple administrative task.
Finally, always respect the limits of your equipment and your own physical capabilities. No amount of high-quality manufacturing can compensate for improper use. Ensure that anchor points for suspension trainers are rated for dynamic loads and check them regularly for stability. Never exceed the maximum weight capacity listed by the manufacturer, and be cautious during exercises that place sudden, jerking forces on the gear. By combining regular inspections with responsible usage habits and staying alert to official safety notices, you create a robust defense against accidents, ensuring that your fitness journey remains both effective and safe.