Diversified Products Megaflex Exerciser Problem

PRODUCT: Diversified Products "Megaflex Home Exerciser" model numbers 15-7600 and 15-7500.

PROBLEM: The freely rotating middle bar on the bench press mechanism may cause a user's foot or feet to slip off the press mechanism while doing leg presses. A user may then be struck in the leg and injured as the press mechanism forcefully returns to the "start" position.

WHAT TO DO: Consumers should discontinue performing the leg press exercise that is outlined in the product's manual.

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Diversified Products of Opelika, AL, previously announced a voluntary repair program for its "Megaflex Home Exerciser," model numbers 15-7500 and 15-7600. The exercise units are easily identified by the label "Megaflex" printed across the top of the included exercise bench.

The freely rotating middle bar on the bench press mechanism may cause a user's feet to slip off the press mechanism while performing the leg press exercise. A user may then be struck in the leg and injured as the press mechanism forcefully returns to the start position. Consumers who own these exercisers are asked to discontinue performing the leg press exercise that is recommended in the product's manual.

The problem was permanently corrected on units manufactured after 1991. Approximately 66,000 of the affected units were sold between February 1991 and January 1992. The units were sold throughout the United States in retail stores at a cost of approximately $400.00.

The firm is out of business and the repair kit once offered is no longer available. Again, consumers should discontinue performing the leg press exercise that is recommended in the product's manual.

CPSC was informed of this potential hazard by Diversified Products after the firm received several complaints from customers who had sustained injuries while performing the leg press exercise.