ISO: 17229:2019

ISO 17229:2019 – Fitness Equipment Certification

Safety, reliability and compliance standard

ISO 17229:2019 / EN 17229:2019 / BDS EN 17229:2019 is an international standard that defines the basic requirements for fitness equipment intended for use in professional, commercial and institutional environments – including gyms, training facilities, rehabilitation centers and sports clubs.

The purpose of the standard is to ensure a high level of safety, functionality, sustainability and convenience in the use of appliances. ISO 17229 is an essential document for assessing the compliance of fitness equipment with applicable quality and safety requirements.

Scope of the standard

The standard covers:

• Definitions and classification of the different types of fitness equipment
• General requirements for construction, stability and ergonomics
• Test methods and verification procedures
• Requirements for marking, user information and documentation
• Additional requirements for specific categories of appliances

Types of appliances according to the classification of the standard:

1. Cardio equipment – treadmills, cross trainers, exercise bikes and more
2. Power Devices – Machines with Weights, Levers, Lever Devices
3. Combined Appliances – Multifunctional Machines
4. Equipment with free weights – benches, stands, frames

Basic technical requirements:

1. Construction and Design:

• Strength and resistance to prolonged stress
• Prevent crushing, cutting, pinching and gripping body parts
• Suitable sizes and shapes tailored to different users

2. Stability and Safety:

• Requirements to prevent tipping, slipping, or movement during use
• Single and reusable reliability
• Anti-corrosion protection of metal elements

3. Ergonomics:

• Correct guidance of movements
• Supporting the body's natural biomechanics
• Adjustable according to the height and weight of the user

4. Labeling and instructions:

• Manufacturer and model identification
• Year of manufacture, serial numbers
• Visual Safety Symbols and Warnings
• Detailed instructions for installation, operation and maintenance

5. Test methodology:

• Static and dynamic loads
• Long cycles of use (simulations)
• Stress Parts Resistance Tests
• Checking locking and adjusting mechanisms

Applicable additional documents and standards:

• EN ISO 20957 (series) – fitness equipment – stationary training equipment – general safety requirements and test methods
• EN 957 (repealed, replaced by ISO 20957) – partially integrated into new versions
• Directive 2001/95/EC – on general product safety

Exceptions to the scope:

Permanently installed outdoor fitness equipment (EN 16630)

Stationary training equipment for medical use (e.g. under MU devices – Directive 93/42/EEC)

How can we assist you?

We provide a full consulting service for manufacturers, importers and suppliers of fitness equipment:

• Analysis of compliance with the standard
• Preparation of technical documentation
• Safe Design Consulting
• Assistance in testing the instruments
• Support in certification processes (CE marking, etc.)