Staph, ringworm, funguses, wart viruses, sepsis, MRSA, cold and flu bugs and now COVID-19 are just some of the infections commonly associated with dirty areas, including the gym you’re working out at. Between scrapes, cuts and bodily fluids, germs tend to run rampant in even the cleanest gyms. You need to take precautions to protect yourself from common gym germs.
Sanitize and Avoid
During your workout, it is impractical to be running to the restroom to wash your hands after every piece of equipment you use. However, almost all gyms have hand sanitizer stations throughout the facility. Be sure to make frequent use of these and avoid touching your skin with your hands that touch the equipment.
Wash! Wash! Wash!
One of the best things you can do is shower directly after working out in a gym. Additionally, you need to wash your clothes using a deep clean cycle and with hot water. You may want to consider getting a laundry sanitizer to add to your washing machine as washing alone does not remove all germs from clothing.
Protect Yourself
Protection seems simple but is often forgotten by many gym goers. If you have any open scrapes or wounds, ensure they are cleaned with a disinfectant (such as rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide) and covered tightly with a bandage. Bring a towel to the gym with you to lay down on the fitness equipment, mats or sauna benches while you use it (this protects you from skin infections such as staph or ringworm). If you get a scrape or cut while working out at the gym, be sure to disinfect it immediately and cover it with a bandage after disinfecting.
Be Selfish
Never share anything that comes in direct contact with you with someone else in the gym. For example, you should never share gloves, towels, bottles or toiletries in locker rooms as this easily spreads germs throughout the gym and individuals.
Related articles
4 Tips To Get Fit In The New Year!
Why Should You Try Food Journaling?
The Power Of Plant-Based Eating
