Fitness chain Sats has temporarily removed GHD training machines from all its centers across Denmark and the Nordic region following a serious accident in Norway that left a 62-year-old man with severe brain injuries.
Accident in Norway Prompts Safety Response
The decision to remove the equipment comes after Norwegian Håkan Walldén suffered a severe concussion when a fastening came loose on a GHD machine at a Sats center in Norway. The 62-year-old told Norwegian media outlet Dagbladet.no that he could have died from the incident.
The accident has triggered immediate action from the fitness chain across all its Nordic operations. Sats operates 28 centers throughout Denmark, and all of them have been instructed to take the machines out of service until further notice.
What is a GHD Machine?
A GHD machine stands for “glute ham developer” and is designed to train the glutes and hamstrings. The equipment is a common fixture in many gyms and fitness centers, used by both beginners and experienced athletes for lower body strengthening exercises.
According to Kristin Fjeld, the Nordic PR manager at Sats, the company has taken swift action to ensure member safety. All centers in the Nordic region, including those in Denmark, have been told to temporarily remove the GHD equipment from use until each machine can be inspected and checked by a service technician.
Inspection and Safety Protocols Underway
The fitness chain is not only focusing on the technical inspection of the equipment but also examining how members use the machines. Fjeld explained that there is a need for clearer labeling and information about correct usage. This work is currently in progress across all Sats locations.
Eventually, each GHD machine will undergo a thorough inspection by qualified service technicians before any decision is made about returning them to the gym floor. The company wants to ensure that all safety protocols are properly followed and that users have adequate guidance on proper form and technique.
Healthcare and Fitness Safety in Denmark
For those living in or moving to Denmark, understanding the country’s approach to health and safety is important. The Danish healthcare system is known for its comprehensive coverage, and this extends to how fitness facilities handle safety concerns.
When Will the Machines Return?
At this point, Sats has not provided a specific timeline for when the GHD machines might return to their Danish centers. The company will make an assessment after all machines have been examined and any necessary repairs or modifications have been completed.
In fact, the decision will also depend on whether additional safety measures need to be implemented. This could include new signage, mandatory instruction sessions for users, or physical modifications to the equipment itself.
Impact on Danish Gym Members
For members who regularly use GHD machines as part of their workout routines, this means temporarily finding alternative exercises for training the glutes and hamstrings. Most fitness centers offer various equipment options that can target similar muscle groups, though some athletes may need to adjust their training programs.
Naturally, the safety measure has been welcomed by many gym users who appreciate the proactive approach. The incident in Norway serves as a reminder that even standard gym equipment requires regular maintenance and proper usage guidelines.
Nordic-Wide Safety Standards
The fact that Sats has implemented this safety measure across all Nordic countries, not just Norway where the accident occurred, demonstrates a commitment to consistent safety standards. This approach ensures that all members benefit from the same level of protection regardless of which country they train in.
Meanwhile, other fitness chains may also review their own GHD equipment in response to this incident. Industry-wide safety protocols could be strengthened as a result of this accident, potentially benefiting gym users across Denmark and beyond.
Looking Forward
Surprisingly, despite the widespread use of GHD machines in gyms throughout the Nordic region, serious accidents involving this equipment are relatively rare. However, when incidents do occur, they highlight the importance of regular equipment maintenance and proper user instruction.
As a result, fitness enthusiasts should always ensure they understand how to use gym equipment correctly before beginning their workout. If unsure, asking a trainer for guidance is always the safest option. On the other hand, gym operators must maintain their equipment according to manufacturer specifications and provide clear usage instructions.
The Sats chain will continue to keep members informed about when the GHD machines will return to service. Until then, trainers at the centers can help members find suitable alternative exercises to maintain their fitness routines without interruption.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Is Danish Healthcare Really Worth the Hype?
The Danish Dream: Fitness in Denmark for Foreigners
DR: Fitnesskæde fjerner maskine i alle danske centre efter ulykke i Norge









