Weighty Problems: Adjustable Dumbbells From Tzumi Pose Injury Risk, Lawsuit Claims

Case Overview: A class action lawsuit alleges that Tzumi's FitRx SmartBell XL adjustable dumbbells have a dangerous defect that can cause weight plates to detach during use, posing a serious injury risk.

Court: U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Tzumi Electronics' popular FitRx SmartBell XL adjustable dumbbells are defective and dangerous—posing a risk of injury to unsuspecting users, a new lawsuit claims. According to the complaint, the dumbbells' weight plates can suddenly detach during use, creating an impact hazard.

The model in question—SmartBell XL Quick-Select 10-90 lbs. (Model 9034)—was recalled by the company on March 20 after over 60 reports of malfunction, including at least seven injuries ranging from bruises to contusions. In total, 12,400 dumbbells were included in the nationwide recall.

Consumers Injured by Defective Dumbbells, Lawsuit Says

The lawsuit was filed by Jason Martinez, a Yonkers resident who bought the adjustable dumbbells in 2023, trusting in what he saw as a reputable brand. Martinez said he was drawn to the SmartBell XL for its convenience, high-tech features, and sleek design.

But like thousands of other customers, Martinez later found out his dumbbells were part of the recall. He says in the complaint he thought the product would be safe, and noted that Tzumi heavily marketed the SmartBell XL as reliable, durable, and innovative. Instead, he now owns a piece of equipment he says is both risky and significantly devalued.

Recall Inadequate, Users Left with Unsafe Equipment

The lawsuit centers on a design flaw in the dumbbells’ adjustable mechanism. The defect, the complaint alleges, causes weight plates to unexpectedly drop mid-exercise. For customers lifting up to 90 pounds, that’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a safety threat.

While Tzumi’s March 2025 recall promised repairs, including replacement handles and storage trays, the lawsuit claims the fix doesn’t fully address the root of the problem. There’s no guarantee, the lawsuit argues, that the adjustments will prevent future dislodging of weights. Even if the repairs work, Martinez and other plaintiffs argue their gear is now marred by safety concerns, reducing its value.

Fitness Equipment Defects Lead to More Lawsuits

Tzumi isn’t alone in facing legal trouble over allegedly dangerous fitness gear. A recent lawsuit against Matrix Training Cycles says its stationary bikes have faulty seats that drop without warning—despite a 2025 recall. 

Peloton made headlines in 2021 when its Tread+ treadmill was linked to injuries and a child’s death, prompting a recall and a $19 million penalty for delayed safety reporting.

In his lawsuit against Tzumi Electronics, Inc., Martinez wants to represent anyone in the United States who purchased a recalled FitRx SmartBell XL Quick-Select adjustable dumbbell.  He is suing for unjust enrichment, fraudulent concealment, failure to warn, design defect, and more, and is and is seeking damages, fees, costs, and interest.

Case Details

• Lawsuit: Martinez v. Tzumi Electronics, Inc.
• Case Number: 7:25-cv-02578 
• Court: U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Plaintiffs' Attorneys

• Philip Furia (SULTZER & LIPARI, PLLC)
• Paul J. Doolittle and Seth C. Little (Poulin | Willey | Anastopoulo, LLC)