Clearwater, FL — CPSC: Millions of BowFlex Dumbbells Recalled After Injury Reports

Clearwater, FL (June 9th, 2025) – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a major recall impacting more than 3.8 million BowFlex adjustable dumbbells. The BowFlex dumbbells recalled, originally sold by Nautilus Inc. and later distributed by Johnson Health Tech Trading, have been linked to serious safety issues. Multiple reports show that the weight plates can detach unexpectedly, causing the dumbbells to fall apart during use. This defect has already resulted in more than 100 injuries, including concussions, broken toes, and deep contusions.

If you live in Clearwater and own one of these recalled dumbbells, you may be eligible for compensation, replacement equipment, or even legal relief if injuries occurred. At Light & Wyatt Law Group, we are here to help.

What’s Included in the BowFlex Dumbbell Recall?

The product recall involves the BowFlex SelectTech 552 and 1090 adjustable dumbbells. The 552 model adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds, while the 1090 model ranges from 10 to 90 pounds. Both models are black, with a central handle, metal weight plates, and a plastic base tray. They were sold either individually or in pairs.

Each recalled dumbbell includes a serial number on the bottom of its tray. The affected products were sold over a two-decade span: Nautilus distributed them from 2004 to April 2024, and Johnson Health Tech Trading took over sales from May 2024 through May 2025.

Why the Recall Was Issued

According to the CPSC, the adjustable dumbbells present an impact hazard because the weight plates can loosen or fall off unexpectedly. This design flaw can cause significant injury if a dumbbell detaches mid-lift. Many users reported the plates sliding off during basic exercises such as curls, rows, or presses.

The recall was initiated following more than 350 customer complaints and 111 injury reports. Among the reported injuries were broken bones, head trauma, and foot injuries. These incidents occurred in both home gyms and commercial fitness centers.

What You Should Do If You Own the Dumbbells

If you own BowFlex SelectTech 552 or 1090 dumbbells, the most important step is to stop using them immediately. Check the serial number on the tray’s underside to determine if your unit is included in the recall. Next, identify which company sold the product:

• If you purchased the dumbbells after April 23, 2024, Johnson Health Tech is responsible for your remedy.
• If your purchase occurred before that date, Nautilus Inc. is handling claims.

Depending on who sold you the product, you may be entitled to a replacement set, a full or prorated voucher, and a free year of access to BowFlex’s JRNY digital fitness platform.

How the Recall Works

To file a recall claim, go to the BowFlex recall website or call Johnson Health Tech’s hotline at 800-209-3539. You’ll need to submit your serial number, model type, and proof of purchase. After you initiate the claim, the company will send you a prepaid return shipping label. Once your dumbbell is received and verified, you’ll receive your choice of remedy based on the product’s seller and your date of purchase.

For dumbbells sold by Johnson Health Tech after April 23, 2024, owners may receive either a full-value voucher or a replacement set. Nautilus customers may receive a prorated voucher based on the product’s age. Some users may also be offered a Visa gift card if new models are unavailable.

If you run into delays, denials, or inadequate remedies, consult with a Clearwater defective product lawyer. 

Legal Options for Clearwater Residents

While the recall offers some remedies, those who have been injured by these defective products may be entitled to more. Under Florida law, consumers injured by dangerous or defective products can pursue compensation through a product liability or personal injury claim.

Injuries from falling dumbbells can lead to expensive medical treatment, long recovery periods, and lost income. Victims may also suffer emotional distress and long-term physical impairment. In cases where a serious injury or wrongful death occurred, families may have the right to seek damages beyond what the recall covers.

Relief Through Product Liability Claims

The recall process is limited in scope. It focuses on fixing or replacing the defective product. However, if you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective BowFlex dumbbell, Florida law allows you to pursue a product liability claim. Such legal action seeks financial compensation for the full extent of your losses, including pain, suffering, and medical bills.

Product liability cases often center on one of three legal theories: design defect, manufacturing defect, or failure to warn. In this case, the adjustable mechanism in the dumbbells may be inherently unsafe, making it a likely design defect. Manufacturers and distributors have a duty to ensure their products are safe when used as intended. When they fail to meet that standard, they can be held liable.

Victims of defective products may be entitled to compensation for emergency medical care, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and other necessary treatments. You may also recover lost wages if your injuries forced you to take time off work. In more serious cases, where the injury results in permanent impairment or disability, damages can include future medical expenses and diminished earning capacity.

Even emotional harm or trauma caused by the injury may factor into a legal claim. And in fatal cases, surviving family members may have the right to bring a wrongful death claim for loss of companionship, funeral costs, and more.

Legal Help for Clearwater Residents Injured by Defective Dumbbells

The BowFlex dumbbell recall highlights a serious breakdown in product safety, and one that could have been avoided. While the recall itself may help prevent future injuries, it does little for people who have already been harmed. If you’re one of them, the law may entitle you to more than just a replacement product or a gift card.

At Light & Wyatt Law Group, we’re committed to standing up for consumers in Clearwater who have been injured by defective or dangerous products. We can help you understand your legal rights, document your injuries, and determine whether a product liability claim is appropriate in your situation.

If you were hurt while using one of the recalled BowFlex dumbbells, don’t wait to get legal guidance. Contact our law group today at 727-499-9900 for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you take the next step toward recovering the compensation you may be entitled to.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association