Diversified Products Corrects 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. Diversified Products is also offering a free repair kit to hold the rotating bar in place. Consumers with questions should call 1-800-633-5730.

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Diversified Products of Opelika, AL, announces 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.

In addition to requesting that consumers abstain from performing the leg press exercise, Diversified Products is offering to send consumers, free of charge, a repair kit that will hold the rotating bar in place. Again, even when this kit is in place, Diversified Products recommends that the leg press exercise not be attempted.

Consumers who would like to receive the repair kit are asked to write: Diversified Products, P.O. Box 100, Opelika, Alabama 36803. For more information about this program, consumers may call 1-800-633-5730.

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