Combating Germs at the Gym

The gym, it’s filled with health nuts and professionals, but the gym may be one of the unhealthiest places you visit. Gyms are filled with germs and bacteria due to the large number of people using, and sweating on, the same equipment and surfaces throughout the day.

 Bacteria’s such as Norovirus, which causes stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, can survive for as long as a month on the surface of exercise machines. And don’t think the locker rooms are much better; the fungi responsible for foot infections multiply at a blinding pace in the showers.

The good news is you don’t have to avoid gyms all together, with a little knowledge you can combat germs at even the gym.

Free Weights, Weight Machines, Exercise Balls

Tons of people use the weights and exercise balls at the gym. Many gyms fail to keep these items sanitary, so it’s important that you wipe equipment with disinfectant before and after you use it. It’s also not a bad idea to carry antibacterial gel and rub it on your hands before and after your workout.

Exercise Mats

Much like weights and exercise balls, many people use the exercise mats provided at the gym. While doing your yoga it’s easy to forget that you could be laying in a bath of germs and bacteria. You’re best to bring your own mat and don't share it. After each use, clean the mat with a bleach-based wipe or disinfectant spray and let it air-dry.

Cardio Machines

While cardio machines are one of the more well-kept and cleaned machines at the gym, you should still take caution when using them. Wipe down machines and seats thoroughly with disinfectant before and after you use them.

The Locker Room

Locker rooms are hot, humid, and crowded, so it should come as no surprise that they are breeding grounds for germs. Always wear flip-flops in the locker room and shower, bacteria starts at ground level; avoid sitting on the benches as well. If you must sit, bring a disinfectant wipe to wipe down your bench area beforehand.