The paradox of a gym is that it is designed to help you maintain your health but also an easy place to get sick. With the number of people that use and sweat up a gym, it should come as no surprise that there are many surfaces contaminated with germs.
Free weight benches, dumbbells, exercise bikes, yoga mats, the list goes on… Everything in the gym is subjected to contamination, and studies have been made repeatedly that show that gyms are by far the most germ ridden place we can go with almost 30 percent of the surfaces testing positive for a contaminate.
Fortunately, you do not have to cancel your gym membership to defend yourself from what lurks in your fitness facility. Take a supply of best gym equipment wipes, clean up your spot and work out to your heart’s content.
One common type of infection that is prevalent in a gym is fungus. Anyone who works out on a regular basis regardless of age or sex is subject to it. A very common fungal infection is athlete’s foot. Others are jock itch and ringworm.
If you are fortunate enough to have a full blown home gym then many of these issues with germs and bacteria will not affect you, though very few people have their own gym. Most people exercise in a private gym, tennis club or health club. As a result, they are constantly exposed to sweat and exercise equipment laden with germs. Because of these conditions, people who frequent the gym are at an increased risk to these health problems. In an effort to control the risk factor, there are a few things that can be done:
- Hand wash: This almost sounds too silly to even mention but sweaty hands are a major source of bacteria and germs. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and either hot or cold water. Rub your hands vigorously for a good 20 seconds, rinse well and paper towel dry.
- Sanitize: If for some reason you do not have access to water, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Any product with at least 60 percent alcohol will work nicely. Fill the palm of one hand with the liquid and rub your hands together, making sure all the surfaces of the hands and fingers are covered.
- Wipes: Good gyms provide an ample supply of antibacterial wipes. Wipe down the equipment you intend using before and after use.
- Shower: Do not go home and crash on the sofa, take a good shower as soon as possible after exercising and get out of your sweaty clothes.
- Feet: If you shower at the health club or gym make sure you protect your feet by wearing rubber flip flops. Make sure your feet are washed and dried, especially between your toes.
These are all good hygiene habits to practice. Choose your club wisely, all clubs have equipment but a primary concern should be hygiene and facility cleanliness.
