Health & Safety Disclaimer

Everything on FitnessReviews.org is for general information and education. It isn't medical advice, and it's no substitute for diagnosis, treatment or advice from a doctor, pharmacist, registered dietitian, physical therapist or other qualified professional.

Information, not medical advice

Our reviews, FR Scores, articles, newsletter and the videos we feature help you understand products and the research behind them. They can't take into account your health history, medications, injuries, fitness level or goals, and reading them doesn't create a doctor–patient or any other professional relationship with FitnessReviews.org.

Never ignore professional medical advice, or delay seeking it, because of something you read or watched on this site.

Talk to a professional first

Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise program or supplement, especially if you:

• have a heart condition, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or another chronic condition
• have had chest pain, fainting, dizziness or unusual shortness of breath, or have been told to limit physical activity
• are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, recently gave birth or are breastfeeding
• take prescription or over-the-counter medicines, since some supplements change how medicines work
• have a joint problem, injury, recent surgery or a planned procedure
• are under 18 (most products we review are made for adults)
• have, or have had, an eating disorder, particularly before using weight-management products
• are sensitive to caffeine or other stimulants, which are common in pre-workouts and energy drinks
• compete in a drug-tested sport (certification programs lower the risk of banned substances but can't remove it)

Exercise safely

Start at a level that suits you and progress gradually. Warm up, use good form and rest between hard sessions. Stop exercising and get medical help right away if you feel chest pain or pressure, severe shortness of breath, dizziness or faintness, or an irregular heartbeat.

Using equipment safely

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly, use, maintenance and weight limits, and inspect equipment regularly for wear, loose parts and frayed cables or bands.
• Treadmills and walking pads: attach the safety key or clip, straddle the belt and start it at a slow speed before stepping on, and keep children and pets away from moving parts. Unplug the machine and remove the key when you're done.
• Adjustable dumbbells and racks: make sure the weight selector is fully engaged before lifting, and use safeties or a spotter for heavy pressing and squatting.
• Massage guns: avoid the front and sides of the neck, bony areas, injuries, bruises and numb skin. If you have a blood-clotting disorder, take blood thinners, are pregnant or have a medical device such as a pacemaker, ask your doctor before using one.
• Recalls: check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's recalls list for equipment you own or plan to buy, and register products with the manufacturer so you hear about recalls.

How supplements are regulated

In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), which treats them differently from drugs. The FDA doesn't approve dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they're sold. Manufacturers are responsible for making sure their products are safe, properly labeled and truthfully marketed, and the FDA can act against unsafe or mislabeled products once they're on the market. Learn more on the FDA's dietary supplements page.

That's why the label, third-party testing and the evidence behind each ingredient carry so much weight in our reviews.

Statements on this site about dietary supplements haven't been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products we discuss aren't intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Wearables and fitness trackers

Most fitness trackers, smart rings and recovery wearables are sold as general wellness products, not as medical devices. Their heart-rate, sleep, readiness, calorie and recovery numbers are estimates. They can be off, especially during intense or stop-and-go exercise or when the device fits loosely, and calorie estimates are the least reliable of all. Some devices have individual features that are FDA-cleared, and only those features are meant for medical use. Don't use a wearable to diagnose a condition or to decide on treatment, and talk to your doctor about readings that worry you.

Everyone responds differently

Research describes average effects across groups of people, and your results may differ. Our scores and reviews assess products; they don't guarantee safety or results for any individual. Formulas and models change, so read the label or manual for the product you actually buy, follow its directions and warnings, and don't take more than the recommended serving unless a healthcare professional tells you to.

If you have a problem

• A side effect from a supplement: stop taking it and contact your healthcare provider. You can also report it to the FDA, which uses these reports to spot unsafe products. The FDA explains how on its page about reporting a problem with a dietary supplement.
• An injury or safety hazard from equipment: stop using it, contact the manufacturer and report it to the CPSC at SaferProducts.gov.

In an emergency

If you think you or someone else is having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

For a suspected poisoning or overdose, including a child swallowing supplements, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. This free, confidential line connects you to your local poison center from anywhere in the United States. Keep all supplements out of children's reach.

Third-party content

The video reviews we feature reflect their creators' own experiences and opinions. Creators aren't necessarily health or fitness professionals, and their videos aren't medical advice. We also link to other websites for your convenience, and we aren't responsible for their content.

Questions

If you have a question about this disclaimer, please contact us. Please note that we can't give personal medical or training advice.