Fitness injuries at ActiveSG gyms

Response to parliamentary question on the criteria and policies determining whether elected MPs can be invited and attend PA events.

PQ 6132. Ms See Jinli Jean: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth for each year from 2021 to date in 2024 (a) what is the number of fitness injuries reported by users of ActiveSG gyms; (b) what is the distribution of such injuries by users aged (i) 12 to 17 years (ii) 18 to 54 years and (iii) 55 years and above; and (c) what measures are in place to educate and supervise newer users of ActiveSG gyms on the appropriate use of fitness and strength training equipment to prevent fitness injuries.

1. The safety of ActiveSG gym users is our top priority.
2. SportSG has implemented various measures to ensure that Singaporeans remain safe while using gym facilities.
1. First, on-duty Fitness Instructors (FIs) regularly move around ActiveSG gyms and guide users on the correct use of equipment if they observe any unsafe practices. ActiveSG gyms also display notices on the proper use of equipment to prevent fitness injuries.
2. Second, new ActiveSG gym users are encouraged to approach FIs for a gym orientation to familiarise themselves with the gym’s rules and equipment.
3. Third, those with pre-existing medical conditions are strongly advised to complete the Get Active Questionnaire (GAQ) and seek medical advice before engaging in high intensity physical activities. These advisories are included in the ActiveSG Gym Rules & Regulations displayed at all gym entrances.

3. While ActiveSG gym visitorship has increased, the number of fitness injuries reported is comparable to those in previous years. In the past year, there were 111 reported cases of fitness injuries across all 28 ActiveSG gyms. This is 1 in 40,000 of ActiveSG’s total gym visitorship. 18% of these injuries were reported by those aged 12 to 17, 63% by those aged 18 to 54, and 19% by those aged 55 and above. These generally correspond to the age profile of ActiveSG gym visitors.

4. We will continue to monitor fitness injuries at ActiveSG facilities and ensure that gym users exercise safely.