DICK'S Sporting Goods Recalls Resistance Tubes Due to Injury Hazard

What was recalled

In late September of 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a significant recall notice involving fitness equipment sold under the brand name DICK's Sporting Goods. Specifically, this action targeted a line of Resistance Tubes manufactured under the "Fitness Gear" sub-brand. These items are designed to serve as versatile workout aids for both upper and lower body exercises, allowing users to add resistance to their strength training routines at home or in the gym. While fitness gear is generally intended to help people build muscle and improve flexibility, this particular batch of products was found to have a critical manufacturing defect that made them unsafe for use.

The recalled products are latex resistance tubes that come in a variety of colors, including blue, gray, green, orange, purple, and red. Each tube is equipped with gray handles at either end, making them easy to grip during workouts. The resistance levels of these tubes vary, ranging from 5 pounds to 30 pounds, allowing users to choose the appropriate intensity for their fitness level. This resistance data is clearly marked on a black strap located between the handle and the latex tube itself, helping consumers identify the strength of the equipment before purchase. These items were sold both individually and in convenient kits containing three, four, or five tubes, catering to different workout needs and budgets.

To help you determine if your specific item is part of this recall, it is crucial to check the model numbers printed on the product packaging or the equipment itself. The CPSC record lists the following nine model numbers as being included in this recall: STA00560, STA00561, STA00562, STA00563, STA00564, STA00565, STA00566, STA00567, and STA00568. If your Fitness Gear resistance tubes match any of these codes, they are part of the recalled batch.

The recall was officially announced on September 27, 2017. While the provided records do not specify the exact start and end dates of the sales period, the products were distributed through DICK's Sporting Goods retail locations and potentially their online store during that timeframe. The number of units sold is not explicitly stated in the current recall facts, but the company has received twelve reports of tubes breaking since they were on the market. This indicates a widespread distribution of these specific models. If you have any of these Fitness Gear resistance tubes at home, it is important to verify the model numbers immediately to ensure your safety.

The hazard, explained

When you use resistance tubes for exercise, you are relying on the physical integrity of latex or similar elastic materials to store and release energy safely. The core issue with the recalled Fitness Gear resistance tubes is a failure in that material structure. These tubes are designed to stretch significantly under tension, storing potential energy that pulls back against your muscles during a workout. However, in this specific case, the latex tubes have a defect that causes them to break while they are under load. This is not a gradual wear-and-tear issue that might happen after years of use; rather, it is a structural failure that can occur during normal operation.

The mechanism of injury here is surprisingly direct and violent. When a tensioned latex tube snaps, it does not simply fall away gently. Instead, the stored energy is released instantaneously. The broken ends of the tube whip back toward the user with considerable force, acting like a heavy, stiff rubber band snapping against skin or bone. This "whip-back" effect is what leads to the primary injury hazard: being struck by the broken equipment. Because these tubes are used for both upper and lower body workouts, they can be positioned anywhere around your head, neck, torso, or legs. A snap near your face or eyes is particularly dangerous, as it can cause direct impact trauma to sensitive areas.

The CPSC data confirms that this physical failure is not just theoretical. The manufacturer has received twelve reports of tubes breaking during use. In two instances, consumers were directly struck by the broken tube itself. This physical impact can range from painful bruising and welts to more serious lacerations or eye injuries, depending on where the tube hits and how hard it strikes. Furthermore, there was a report of a consumer falling because a tube broke. This highlights a secondary but critical aspect of the hazard: balance and stability. When you are performing exercises that require you to be anchored or balanced against resistance, a sudden snap removes that anchor unexpectedly. If you are mid-squat, mid-pull, or balancing on one leg, the abrupt loss of tension can throw off your center of gravity, leading to a fall. This secondary injury from falling is often just as severe as the impact from the tube itself.

It is important to understand that this hazard exists regardless of how carefully you use the equipment. Even if you are following all proper form guidelines and staying within the recommended resistance levels (which range from 5 to 30 pounds for these models), a manufacturing defect in the latex can cause premature failure. The defect essentially undermines the material's ability to hold its shape under stress, turning what should be a safe workout tool into an unpredictable projectile. This is why the CPSC and DICK'S Sporting Goods have deemed this a serious hazard requiring immediate action, rather than a minor inconvenience that might be addressed with a warning label or care instructions.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk in this recall consists of anyone who currently owns or regularly uses the Fitness Gear resistance tubes sold by DICK's Sporting Goods. Because these are versatile pieces of home gym equipment designed for both upper and lower body workouts, they appeal to a wide demographic. This includes fitness enthusiasts looking to supplement their gym routines, individuals recovering from injuries who need low-impact strength training, and casual exercisers trying to stay active at home. If you purchased these tubes individually or as part of a kit containing three, four, or five units, you are potentially in the affected group regardless of your specific fitness level.

While the hazard is physical for everyone who uses the product, certain individuals face more severe consequences if the latex tube were to snap during use. The recall notes that broken tubes can strike users with significant force or cause them to lose balance and fall. For younger adults or robust individuals, a sudden snap might result in a minor bruise or a startled reaction. However, for older adults, particularly those who may have balance issues, osteoporosis, or other mobility concerns, the risk is substantially higher. A fall caused by a tangled or broken resistance band can lead to serious fractures or head injuries, making this hazard disproportionately dangerous for the elderly population.

Children and teenagers are also at elevated risk, not just from the impact of the flying tube but from the nature of their physical development. Resistance tubes range from 5 pounds to 30 pounds of tension. If a child uses a tube with resistance that is too high for their strength, or if they lack the proper form to control the recoil of a snapping latex band, the potential for injury increases. The "snap-back" effect of a broken elastic material can travel quickly and unpredictably. In an environment where children might be playing nearby or using the equipment without strict supervision, the likelihood of accidental contact with the broken ends rises.

Furthermore, individuals exercising in confined spaces or on slippery floors face compounding risks. If a tube breaks while you are performing a dynamic movement, such as a rotational twist or a lunge, the sudden loss of tension can cause you to collapse into nearby furniture, walls, or hard surfaces. This secondary impact is often where serious injury occurs. Therefore, anyone using these tubes in a cluttered home gym, on hardwood floors without mats, or while multitasking should be especially vigilant. The combination of unpredictable equipment failure and environmental factors creates a perfect storm for preventable accidents.

It is also important to recognize that risk is not limited to the primary user. Family members sharing the same household may be at risk if they use the recalled tubes without knowing about the defect. Since the tubes are often stored together in kits, one person’s lack of awareness can put another at risk. This is why identifying your specific model numbers—STA00560 through STA00568—is crucial for protecting not just yourself, but everyone in your home who might pick up a gray-handled tube with a black strap.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you purchased fitness equipment from DICK’s Sporting Goods in or around late 2017, it is important to take a close look at your resistance tubes before using them again. The recall specifically targets Fitness Gear brand resistance tubes that were marketed as upper and lower body workout equipment. To determine whether your product is part of this specific safety notice, you need to verify several key details about the item’s physical appearance, its labeling, and its model number.

First, check the visual characteristics of the tubes. The recalled items are made of latex and were sold in a variety of colors: blue, gray, green, orange, purple, and red. Each tube is attached to a gray handle. It is crucial to note that these tubes were sold both individually and in kits containing three, four, or five tubes. If your set matches this description, proceed to the next step for verification.

The most reliable way to confirm if your product is affected is by locating the model number. Look for a black strap situated between the handle and the latex tube itself. This strap serves a dual purpose: it marks the resistance level of the tube and displays the specific model number. The recalled model numbers are STA00560, STA00561, STA00562, STA00563, STA00564, STA00565, STA00566, STA00567, and STA00568. If your tube bears any of these nine model numbers, it is part of the recall.

If you have lost the original packaging or receipt, do not worry. The black strap on the tube itself is the primary identifier. Ensure that the number you see matches one of the models listed above exactly. Be cautious with similar-looking products from other brands or different model lines, as this recall is limited to the Fitness Gear brand and the specific model numbers identified by the CPSC. If you cannot find a model number on the strap or if the number does not match the list, your product is likely not subject to this specific recall, though general safety checks are always recommended.

If you are unsure about the age of your product, remember that this recall was issued on September 27, 2017. Products sold before this date may be included if they match the model numbers described. For additional confirmation, you can contact DICK’s Sporting Goods directly at 877-846-9997 or visit their website and click on "Recalls" at the bottom of the page to verify your specific item.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Fitness Gear resistance tubes from DICK's Sporting Goods, your primary and most straightforward option is to seek a full refund. The manufacturer has structured the remedy to be as accessible as possible for customers who may have misplaced their original proof of purchase. This approach recognizes that gym equipment often sits in closets or garages for months, and receipts are frequently discarded or lost over time. Consequently, DICK's Sporting Goods has implemented a flexible policy to ensure that no customer is unfairly penalized for not having the physical receipt in hand.

To initiate this process, you must take the product back to a physical DICK's Sporting Goods store. While online return portals are common for many retail transactions, this specific recall remedy requires an in-person visit to the nearest location. When you arrive at the store, present the recalled resistance tube(s) to a customer service representative or associate. They will verify that the item is indeed part of the recall batch by checking the model numbers and description against the official list. Once verified, your compensation depends on whether you can produce a receipt.

If you have your original receipt, the process is simple: you will receive a full refund for the purchase price. This means you get back exactly what you paid, with no deductions or restocking fees. However, if you do not have a receipt, you are still protected. In this scenario, DICK's Sporting Goods will provide you with store credit instead of cash back. This store credit can be used toward any other products in their inventory, allowing you to potentially upgrade your equipment or purchase different fitness accessories without spending additional out-of-pocket money. It is important to note that the remedy does not include a repair service for these specific latex tubes. Because the hazard involves the structural integrity of the material breaking during use, attempting to fix them would be dangerous and ineffective. Therefore, replacement with new units is not an option offered under this recall; the only path forward is returning the defective item for financial restitution.

For any questions regarding the process or if you need assistance locating the nearest store that can handle this specific recall transaction, you can contact DICK's Sporting Goods directly. You may call their toll-free number at 877-846-9997. Customer service is available from 8 a.m. to midnight ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.DicksSportingGoods.com and click on the "Recalls" link at the bottom of the page for additional details and confirmation of the remedy terms.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to want to get the most out of a workout or to simply avoid the hassle of returning an item. After all, resistance tubes are generally durable tools that have likely served you well in your fitness routine. However, ignoring this recall carries specific and tangible risks that go beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue here is not just that the product might stop working; it is that the structural integrity of the latex has failed in a way that turns a piece of exercise equipment into a potential projectile or tripping hazard.

The primary danger lies in the sudden, unexpected failure of the tube under tension. When you are actively using these resistance bands, you are applying significant force to stretch the latex. If the material is compromised, it does not just slowly lose elasticity; it can snap with considerable speed and force. As noted in the reports from DICK's Sporting Goods, there have been instances where consumers were directly struck by the broken ends of the tubes. This is not a minor bruise scenario; a snapping band whipped back at high velocity can cause lacerations, contusions, or eye injuries, especially if you are positioned close to your anchor point or facing the direction of the recoil.

Beyond direct impact injuries, there is a secondary risk of loss of balance and subsequent falls. The recalled Fitness Gear tubes were designed for both upper and lower body workouts. If a tube breaks while you are using it for lower-body exercises—such as leg presses or lateral walks—the sudden release of tension can cause your body to lurch forward or sideways unexpectedly. One reported incident involved a consumer who fell precisely because the tube broke during use. In a home gym setting, falling onto hard floors, near furniture, or with limbs flailing can lead to sprains, fractures, or head injuries that are far more serious than the initial equipment failure.

Furthermore, continuing to use these items poses a risk of cumulative damage to your workout space and personal safety. A snapped tube can whip across the room, potentially damaging walls, mirrors, or other valuable exercise equipment. More importantly, it creates a false sense of security. You may assume that because the tube held up last time, it is safe now. However, latex degradation often happens internally before the final break. By putting off the return, you are essentially gambling your physical safety on the hope that the next stretch will not be the one that causes the catastrophic failure. The remedy is straightforward and risk-free: stop using the item immediately and return it for a refund or credit. Your health is worth far more than the minor effort of making that trip to the store.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain Fitness Gear resistance tubes, the incident reports highlight a universal truth about home fitness equipment: even when products are built to standard, wear and tear can introduce unexpected risks. Resistance bands and tubes rely on the elasticity of latex or synthetic materials to provide tension. Over time, that material fatigues. Micro-tears may develop that are invisible to the naked eye until the moment of maximum stretch, leading to sudden failure. To stay safe with any elastic workout gear, make it a habit to inspect your equipment before every single use. Look closely for discoloration, sticky residue, or thinning spots. If you notice any irregularities, stop using the item immediately. Do not assume that because a band looked fine last week, it is safe today.

Beyond visual inspection, consider how you anchor your workout space. When resistance tubes snap, they release stored energy rapidly, turning into whips that can cause eye injuries or bruises. If you are using bands for lower-body exercises where the tube might break toward the floor, ensure your footing is stable to prevent falling. For upper-body work, maintain a safe distance from walls, furniture, and other people. It is also wise to avoid wrapping bands around door frames or sharp edges without proper protection, as friction can accelerate wear on the latex. Using a door anchor designed for this purpose can help distribute tension more evenly and protect the integrity of the band.

Proper storage is another often-overlooked aspect of safety. Heat, sunlight, and extreme cold can degrade latex much faster than normal use. Store your resistance tubes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in hot cars or near radiators. When not in use, coil them loosely rather than stretching them tightly around hooks or handles for long periods, as constant tension can weaken the material’s structural integrity over time.

Finally, make recall awareness a regular part of your consumer routine. Manufacturers and safety agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issue recalls to protect you from defects that are not immediately obvious. Set aside a few minutes each month to check the CPSC website or sign up for email alerts. This simple habit ensures that if a defect is discovered in any product you own—from baby gear to kitchen appliances—you can act quickly to resolve it, keeping your home and family safe.