The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·15062·Announced 2015-01-22

Matrix Fitness Strength Training Machines Recalled for Detaching Handle Hazards

Johnson Health Tech is recalling Matrix Fitness Varsity series strength training machines because the handle attachment can detach, posing impact, laceration, and fall risks.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves significant injury reports, including a head laceration and a fall, which aligns with the rubric criteria for a Severe (4) rating involving significant injury reports.

Plain-English summary

Johnson Health Tech is recalling approximately 140 Matrix Fitness Varsity series strength training machines. The recall involves five specific models: VY-6021 Lat Pulldown, VY-6042 Bicep/Triceps Press, VY-6046 Lat Pulldown/Low Row, VY-6099 Total Body Trainer, and J7021 Special Order Lat Pull. These machines feature chrome frames, stacked weights, and overhead pulleys, and are identified by a white sticker at the base with the "Matrix" brand and model number.

The recall is due to a risk that the handle attachment can detach during use. This detachment can hit the user with force or cause the user to lose balance and fall, posing hazards of impact injury, laceration, and falls. Johnson Health Tech is aware of two injuries associated with this defect, including one instance where a man was hit and cut on the head, and another where a man fell when the handle detached.

The affected machines were sold by Johnson Health Tech North America and its fitness equipment dealers nationwide from July 2013 through October 2014 for between $3,300 and $4,000. They are typically used in commercial fitness facilities such as health clubs, hotels, apartment complexes, rehabilitation centers, schools, and municipal facilities. Owners should immediately prevent people from using the machines and contact Johnson Health Tech North America to schedule a free repair.

The recalled product

Product
Matrix Fitness Varsity series strength training machines
Affected units
140

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.