If you’ve ever stepped onto a treadmill and been zapped by an electric shock, you’re not alone. This is called treadmill static shock and it’s a common problem.
Though it may seem like a freak occurrence, there are actually a few reasons why this might happen. In most cases, it’s nothing to worry about and can be easily fixed. Read on to learn more about why your treadmill shocks you and how to stop it from happening again in the future.
What is treadmill static shock and why does it happen?
Treadmill static shock is caused by a build-up of static electricity. This can happen when you walk or run on a treadmill, as your feet repeatedly strike the belt. The friction between your feet and the belt creates static electricity, which then discharges in the form of a shock when you touch something metal, like the treadmill’s handrails.
In some cases, static electricity can also build up on your clothes. If you’re wearing synthetic fabrics (polyester or nylon), these materials are more likely to create static electricity than natural fibers like cotton.
Another reason why you might experience static shocks on a treadmill is if the belt is too dry. When the belt is dry, there’s more friction between your feet and the belt, which can lead to a build-up of static electricity.
How to stop treadmill static shock?
As we mentioned, static electricity is the main cause of treadmill static shock. To stop this from happening, you can do a few things:
Wear the right clothes
If you often experience static shocks on a treadmill, it might be time to switch up your workout clothes. Wearing clothing made from natural fibers like cotton can help to reduce static electricity.
You can also try treated fabrics as they are designed to reduce static electricity. These fabrics are often used in sportswear and can be found in many athletic stores.
Use a humidifier
If the air in your home is dry, it can contribute to static electricity and make treadmill static shocks more likely. Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and reduce static electricity.
Keep the treadmill belt clean and lubricated
A clean and lubricated treadmill belt will also help to reduce static electricity. Be sure to wipe down the belt after each use and apply a treadmill belt lubricant every few months.
Use a treadmill mat. A treadmill mat helps to absorb some of the friction between your feet and the belt, which can reduce static electricity.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to avoid static shocks on your treadmill in the future. But if you do experience a shock, don’t worry – it’s usually harmless and won’t do any serious damage.
Do treadmills have shock absorbers?
While some treadmills have shock absorbers, not all of them do. Shock absorbers are designed to reduce the impact of your feet striking the ground, which can help to protect your joints and prevent injuries.
However, shock absorbers won’t do anything to reduce static electricity or prevent treadmill static shocks. If you’re looking for a way to reduce static electricity, we recommend following the tips in the previous section.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
Static electricity is the main cause of treadmill static shock. To stop this from happening, you can do a few things, such as wearing the right clothes, using a humidifier, or keeping the treadmill belt clean and lubricated. If you follow these tips, you should be able to avoid static shocks on your treadmill in the future.
If you have any further questions about static electricity or treadmill static shocks, feel free to ask in the comments section below.
Eamon is a long time fitness enthusiast with extensive experience in running, weight lifting, and nutritional health. He studies the latest research to find science-backed information about treadmills and cardiovascular health to help our readers transform their body and mind the right way.