Federal safety regulators have issued an urgent warning for fitness enthusiasts across Western New York and the nation following a series of dangerous incidents involving popular home exercise equipment. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a critical recall of specific walking pads and treadmills sold online, citing significant risks of sudden injury and fire hazards.
Investigation Uncovers Safety Failures in Sperax Fitness Devices
The investigation into Sperax walking pads and Sperax treadmills revealed a pattern of unpredictable behavior. Users have reported that these devices unexpectedly change speeds or come to an abrupt halt without warning. For Buffalo residents utilizing these for home workouts, such malfunctions pose a severe risk of loss of balance, resulting in falls and significant physical trauma.
As of April 16, 2026, the CPSC has documented 201 reports of mechanical failures, including “uncontrollable speeds and abrupt stops.” These incidents have resulted in at least 66 injuries, including a confirmed concussion. Furthermore, the safety risk extends beyond mechanical issues; over 570 reports of thermal incidents have been filed, detailing overheating and fires that caused at least four minor burns.
Identifying Affected Models
The recall affects several specific models sold through major online retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and eBay. These products are generally black with a distinctive red trim. To determine if your device is included in this recall, check the label located near the power switch for the following model numbers:
| Model Name | Product Type |
|---|---|
| Sperax Pro | Walking Pad |
| Sperax Q1 | Walking Pad |
| Sperax RM-01 | Treadmill |
| Sperax RM-02 | Treadmill |
The products were manufactured in China and imported by Quanzhou Wentelai Import and Export Trading Co., Ltd., which operates under the Sperax brand. In a move that has drawn scrutiny from safety advocates, the importer has reportedly refused to cooperate with the voluntary recall or the public safety press release. The federal product safety reference number for this issue is 26-415.
Critical Safety Steps for Western New York Residents
The Lake Erie Times and federal regulators urge all owners of these fitness devices to cease use immediately. Because of the fire and injury risks, consumers are also cautioned against selling or donating these products to others.
If you have encountered an issue with these products, it is vital to provide information to the CPSC to aid their ongoing oversight. Reports can be filed through the official portal at www.SaferProducts.gov.
About the Author: William Strasmore is a dedicated news reporter for the Lake Erie Times. With an extensive background in investigative journalism, William focuses on regional dynamics and community affairs across Western New York, uncovering the truths that matter most to Buffalo residents.
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